Modular power generation facilities using shipping container-based modules

ABSTRACT

Systems, methods, and building block modules for modular power generation facilities are disclosed. A modular power generation facility includes a plurality of primary modules and a control system. Each primary module includes eight primary corners and an interior space. The modules are positioned in a vertical stack and are attached together to form a substantially modular enclosure for the generation of electricity. The modules include gen-set modules, each having an engine-generator and a fuel tank disposed in the interior, and a switchgear module having switchgear ganged to the gen-set modules. The control system communicates with the gen-set modules to coordinate the engine-generators as a unit and to control the loading of each of the generators in response to a power load demand. The control system is disposed in one or more of the primary modules with at least part of the control system being disposed in the switchgear module.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application:

-   -   (a) is a U.S. continuation patent application of, and claims        priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. nonprovisional patent        application Ser. No. 15/788,324, filed Oct. 19, 2017, which        nonprovisional patent application published as U.S. patent        application publication Ser. No. 10/340,696, and which        application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and        claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional        patent application Ser. No. 62/409,901 filed Oct. 19, 2016; and    -   (b) is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims        priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent        application Ser. No. 62/409,901 filed Oct. 19, 2016.        All of the foregoing patent applications and publication thereof        are incorporated by reference herein.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyrightprotection under the copyright laws of the United States and othercountries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimilereproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure,as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all othercopyright rights whatsoever are reserved.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION Field of the Present Invention

The present invention relates generally to non-utility localized powersupply systems, and, more particularly, to modular power generationfacilities built using interchangeable ISO intermodal shippingcontainer-based modules of various types that may be arranged intomultiple levels to enable incremental capacity to be added to a powersupply system, to provide back-up power generation, to supplementutility power for peak-shaving purposes, and the like.

Background

Power production from a generator through the conversion of mechanicalenergy to electrical energy is well known and well utilized to meet avariety of power load demands. The adaptability and minimalisticinfrastructure features of generators are particularly beneficial forboth commercial and residential power supply. Conventionally, anengine-generator combination (often referred to as a “gen-set”) ismounted into a self-contained housing and installed and transported to apoint of use. Often, these single generators are sized to handle adesired full power load, but if a larger power load is required,multiple generators are necessary. The use of multiple gen-setsconnected in a parallel manner can be used to provide a range of powergeneration by cycling on and off one or more of the installed gen-setsas load varies.

Running multiple redundant large and inefficient generators,particularly in spatially-confined areas, present efficiencylimitations, safety concerns and/or unwanted questionable performanceduring an individual generator failure event. For example, transportingand packaging large generators present shipping and installationconcerns. Often, the total generator packages are too large or too heavyto ship via truck. Similarly, the footprint required for multipleoversized generators add design and installation concerns, especiallyfor high power-demand users.

For certain users of electrical power, the required quantity of powermay be difficult to determine at the time of construction of thefacility. In some instances, it is known that power demand will increaseover time, but the rate of increase and the timing of the increase areimpossible to determine. In other instances, varying fuel costs as wellas environmental regulations make it difficult to design an idealgeneration plant.

One example of such a user of electric power is a computer data center.A typical computer data center requires large quantities of electricallyclean (constant voltage without electrical noise), uninterruptedelectric power, in quantities that can vary based on time of day andtime of year. Generating such power on-site is often preferable tobuying utility power as the facility interconnect to the power grid isnot always adequate for large increases in demand. Unlike many otherusers of electric power, computer data centers can take advantage ofincreasingly denser computer processors, which allows them to addprocessing power without increasing the size of the server room(s). Asprocessing power increases, the need for electrical power increases.Therefore, one problem to be solved by the present invention is to beable to provide higher quantities of electric power without the need toincrease the physical space required to generate such power. However, itis very difficult to predict the expected growth of the data center size(physically as well as electrically) throughout the life cycle of a datacenter design and construction.

The lead times necessary to procure the necessary major equipmentassociated with electric power generation requires advanced commitmentto purchase this equipment well before final design needs are known.This has the potential for stranded assets, increased operating costs,and other capital expenditures beyond the revenue generating capacity ofthe facility. It would thus be useful to have some degree ofstandardization in electric power generation capacity that will allowfor tighter supply chain management and reduced queue and manufacturinglead times for generating equipment. Such electric power users arelooking for a solution that will allow for an increase in generatedpower while reducing the overall physical footprint necessary togenerate this power. This new power density paradigm must be deliveredon a schedule that allow for a balance in power needs with the ultimatebuild-out of a given data center.

There are existing power generation means that utilize multiple gen-setsand the related switchgear and transformers that allow for increasedpower generation density in a given footprint. However, there arestructural limitations that necessitate complex structural assemblies,reliance on large bore diesel engine-based gen-sets, and the relatedlimit on the ability to reduce equipment lead-times and installationefficiency. The need to comply with exhaust emission requirements alsocomplicates the use of prior art means of providing incremental units ofgeneration capacity. Furthermore, the current use of large bore dieselengine-based gen-sets has limits in terms of optimizing the powergeneration footprint and supply chain management due to the size, weightand cost of the major equipment.

Still further, the use of the large bore diesel engine-based gen-setsrequires commitment to a particular facility design that cannot easilybe changed. Unfortunately, fluctuations in the cost of diesel fuel canmake it prohibitively expensive to continue operation of the facility,and changing fuels is very difficult. Similar issues arise with othertypes of gen-sets. Thus, it would be useful for a user to be able todynamically determine the mix of fuel sources from which to generatepower.

Another problem associated with conventional back-up and utility gridsupport generators is the noise they produce when operating.

One known modular power generation system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.8,427,005. However, such system suffers from many drawbacks. Forexample, different module types in the system use footprints ofdifferent widths; the modules have a complicated mounting system; themodules cannot be stacked on top of each other; multi-level facilitiescannot be created; the system generally requires a common fuel tankrather than using modules with their own fuel tanks and/or makes noprovision for the use of additional modules providing dedicated externalfuel tanks; and the system makes no provision for the use of additionalmodules that provide supplemental sound attenuation functionality.

Accordingly, a need exists for improvements in the field of incrementalelectric power generation for certain localized users of electric power.These, and other needs, are addressed by one or more aspects of thepresent invention.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Broadly defined, the present invention according to one aspect is amodular power generation facility, including: a plurality of primarymodules, wherein each primary module includes eight primary corners andan interior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall, a sidewall, and an end wall, wherein the primary modules are positioned sideby side in a row of modules and are attached together to form asubstantially modular enclosure for the generation of electricity,wherein the primary modules include one or more gen-set modules, eachhaving an engine-generator and a dedicated fuel tank disposed in theinterior thereof, wherein the fuel tank provides fuel to theengine-generator, and wherein the primary modules include a switchgearmodule having switchgear disposed in the interior thereof, wherein theswitchgear is ganged to at least one of the one or more gen-set modules;and a control system in communication with each of the gen-set modulesto coordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modulesas a unit and to control the loading of each of the generators inresponse to a power load demand, wherein the control system is disposedin one or more of the primary modules with at least part of the controlsystem being disposed in the switchgear module.

In a feature of this aspect, all of the primary modules may have acommon height.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module may be atransformer/switchgear module, the transformer/switchgear module has atransformer disposed in the interior thereof, and the transformer isconnected to the switchgear. In further features, the primary modulesfurther may include a workroom module, and the control system is jointlydisposed in the workroom module and the transformer/switchgear module;the workroom module may be disposed adjacent a first side of thetransformer/switchgear module, and one of the one or more gen-setmodules is disposed on an opposite side of the transformer/switchgearmodule from the workroom module; the adjacency of the workroom module tothe transformer/switchgear module defines an interface, and theinterface is open to provide clearance around the transformer orswitchgear and improve access; and/or the workroom module may beattached via the respective primary corners to thetransformer/switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, the primary modules may be mountedon, and attached to, a base frame or foundation. In further features,the base frame or foundation may include a plurality of modular basestructures, and each primary module is mounted on, and attached to, arespective modular base structure; each primary module is attached, viaits primary corners, to the base frame or foundation; the primarycorners of each primary module of each type includes four bottomcorners, each of the bottom corners of each of the primary modules mayutilize a standardized connection structure, and the base frame orfoundation may include corresponding structures that couple to, and holdin place, the various bottom corners to hold the various primary modulesin place on the base frame or foundation; and/or the standardizedconnection structures may be corner castings from an intermodal shippingcontainer, and the corresponding structures of the base frame orfoundation may be twist lock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include one or more secondary modules, wherein eachsecondary module is disposed at an end of, but on the same level as, arespective primary module of the row of side-by-side primary modules. Infurther features, each secondary module may have a height equal to thecommon height of the primary modules; the one or more secondary modulesmay include a fuel tank module, each fuel tank module is disposed at theend of a respective gen-set module, and each fuel tank module houses afuel tank, in an interior thereof, that provides auxiliary fuel to theengine-generator in the respective gen-set module; each fuel tank modulemay include sound baffles, disposed in the interior thereof, to mufflesounds of combustion and flow of air in or out of the respective gen-setmodule; and/or the one or more secondary modules may include a soundbaffle module, each sound baffle module is disposed at the end of arespective gen-set module, and each sound baffle module houses soundbaffles, in an interior thereof, to muffle sounds of combustion and flowof air in or out of the respective gen-set module.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include a staircase module having eight primary corners, andthe staircase module is disposed alongside, and attached via therespective primary corners to, at least one primary module in the row ofside-by-side primary modules. In a further feature, each staircasemodule may have a height, as measured from a top of a top primary cornerto a bottom of a bottom primary corner directly beneath, equal to thecommon height of the primary modules.

In another feature of this aspect, all of the primary modules may have acommon length.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may be adaptedfrom an intermodal shipping container having four posts, a pair of topside rails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, a rear sill, atop front rail, and a top rear rail, all of which are connected togetherby shipping container corner castings, and the shipping container cornercastings form the eight primary corners. In further features, eachprimary module may be attached to a body above or below it via thecorner castings and corresponding twist lock fasteners; the primarymodules that are positioned side by side in a row of modules may beattached together via side attachment fittings that are each connectedto one corner casting on a first primary module and a correspondingcorner casting on a second primary module; and/or portions of at leasttwo of the walls of each primary module may be corrugated shippingcontainer walls.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may include atleast one walk-through opening accessing the interior thereof, and theat least one walk-through opening of each primary module is aligned withthe at least one walk-through opening of the primary module immediatelyadjacent thereto, thereby providing access from the interior of eachprimary module to the interior of the immediately adjacent primarymodule.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may be attachedvia the respective primary corners to the primary module immediatelyadjacent thereto.

In another feature of this aspect, each of one or more of the pluralityof primary modules may include a respective superstructure, extendingoutwardly from the end wall, that supports one or more operationalcomponent. In further features, at least one of the one or more gen-setmodules may include the superstructure; a respective fluid tank may bedisposed on each of at least one superstructure, external to theinterior space of the primary module; each respective fluid tank may bea diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; each respective fluid tank may be afuel tank; the switchgear module may include the superstructure; cablesrouted to/from an adjacent primary module may be supported on eachsuperstructure; each superstructure may include a horizontal ladderstructure, the respective horizontal ladder structures of horizontallyadjacent primary modules may be aligned with each other, and cables arerouted to/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned horizontalladder structures; and/or each superstructure may include a verticalladder structure, the respective vertical ladder structures ofvertically adjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, andcables are routed to/from the adjacent primary modules via the alignedvertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amodular power generation facility, including: a plurality of primarymodules, wherein all of the primary modules may have a common width,wherein each primary module includes eight primary corners and aninterior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall, a side wall,and an end wall, wherein the primary modules are positioned side by sidein a row of modules and are attached together to form a substantiallymodular enclosure for the generation of electricity, wherein the primarymodules include one or more gen-set modules, each having anengine-generator disposed in the interior thereof, and wherein theprimary modules include a switchgear module having switchgear disposedin the interior thereof, wherein the switchgear is ganged to at leastone of the one or more gen-set modules; and a control system incommunication with each of the gen-set modules to coordinate theengine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as a unit and tocontrol the loading of each of the generators in response to a powerload demand, wherein the control system is disposed in one or more ofthe primary modules with at least part of the control system beingdisposed in the transformer/switchgear module; wherein the variousprimary modules are interchangeable, due to their common width, suchthat at a subsequent time a primary module may be removed from the rowof modules and replaced by another primary module of the same ordifferent type.

In a feature of this aspect, all of the primary modules may have acommon height.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module may be atransformer/switchgear module, the transformer/switchgear module has atransformer disposed in the interior thereof, and the transformer isconnected to the switchgear. In further features, the primary modulesfurther may include a workroom module, and the control system is jointlydisposed in the workroom module and the transformer/switchgear module;the workroom module may be disposed adjacent a first side of thetransformer/switchgear module, and one of the one or more gen-setmodules is disposed on an opposite side of the transformer/switchgearmodule from the workroom module; the adjacency of the workroom module tothe transformer/switchgear module defines an interface, and wherein theinterface is open to provide clearance around the transformer orswitchgear and improve access; and/or the workroom module may beattached via the respective primary corners to thetransformer/switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, the primary modules may be mountedon, and attached to, a base frame or foundation. In further features,the base frame or foundation may include a plurality of modular basestructures having a width equal to the common width of the primarymodules, and each primary module is mounted on, and attached to, arespective modular base structure; each primary module may be attached,via its primary corners, to the base frame or foundation; the primarycorners of each primary module of each type includes four bottomcorners, each of the bottom corners of each of the primary modules mayutilize a standardized connection structure, and the base frame orfoundation may include corresponding structures that couple to, and holdin place, the various bottom corners to hold the various primary modulesin place on the base frame or foundation; and/or the standardizedconnection structures may be corner castings from an intermodal shippingcontainer, and the corresponding structures of the base frame orfoundation may be twist lock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, each gen-set module may furtherinclude a dedicated fuel tank disposed in the interior thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include one or more secondary modules, each having a widthequal to the common width of the primary modules, and each secondarymodule is disposed at an end of, but on the same level as, a respectiveprimary module of the row of side-by-side primary modules. In furtherfeatures, each secondary module may have a height equal to the commonheight of the primary modules; the one or more secondary modules mayinclude a fuel tank module, each fuel tank module is disposed at the endof a respective gen-set module, and each fuel tank module houses a fueltank, in an interior thereof, that provides fuel to the engine-generatorin the respective gen-set module; each fuel tank module may includesound baffles, disposed in the interior thereof, to muffle sounds ofcombustion and flow of air in or out of the respective gen-set module;and/or the one or more secondary modules may include a sound bafflemodule, each sound baffle module is disposed at the end of a respectivegen-set module, and each sound baffle module houses sound baffles, in aninterior thereof, to muffle sounds of combustion and flow of air in orout of the respective gen-set module.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include a staircase module having a width equal to thecommon width of the primary modules and eight primary corners, and thestaircase module is disposed alongside, and attached via the respectiveprimary corners to, at least one primary module in the row ofside-by-side primary modules. In further features, each staircase modulemay have a height, as measured from a top of a top primary corner to abottom of a bottom primary corner directly beneath, equal to the commonheight of the primary modules; and/or the staircase module isinterchangeable with the various primary modules due to their commonwidth, such that at a subsequent time a primary module or staircasemodule may be removed from the row of modules and replaced by astaircase module or another primary module of the same or differenttype.

In another feature of this aspect, all of the primary modules may have acommon length.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may be adaptedfrom an intermodal shipping container having four posts, a pair of topside rails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, a rear sill, atop front rail, and a top rear rail, all of which are connected togetherby shipping container corner castings, and the shipping container cornercastings form the eight primary corners. In further features, eachprimary module may be attached to a body above or below it via thecorner castings and corresponding twist lock fasteners; the primarymodules that are positioned side by side in a row of modules may beattached together via side attachment fittings that are each connectedto one corner casting on a first primary module and a correspondingcorner casting on a second primary module; and/or portions of at leasttwo of the walls of each primary module may be corrugated shippingcontainer walls.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may include atleast one walk-through opening accessing the interior thereof, and theat least one walk-through opening of each primary module is aligned withthe at least one walk-through opening of the primary module immediatelyadjacent thereto, thereby providing access from the interior of eachprimary module to the interior of the immediately adjacent primarymodule.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module is attached viathe respective primary corners to the primary module immediatelyadjacent thereto.

In another feature of this aspect, each of one or more of the pluralityof primary modules may include a respective superstructure, extendingoutwardly from the end wall, that supports one or more operationalcomponent. In further features, at least one of the one or more gen-setmodules may include the superstructure; a respective fluid tank may bedisposed on each of at least one superstructure, external to theinterior space of the primary module; each respective fluid tank may bea diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; each respective fluid tank may be afuel tank; the switchgear module may include the superstructure; cablesrouted to/from an adjacent primary module may be supported on eachsuperstructure; each superstructure may include a horizontal ladderstructure, the respective horizontal ladder structures of horizontallyadjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, and cables arerouted to/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned horizontalladder structures; and/or each superstructure may include a verticalladder structure, the respective vertical ladder structures ofvertically adjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, andcables are routed to/from the adjacent primary modules via the alignedvertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amodular power generation facility, including: a plurality of primarymodules, wherein each primary module includes eight primary corners andan interior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall, a sidewall, and an end wall, wherein each primary module is adapted from anintermodal shipping container having four posts, a pair of top siderails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a topfront rail, and a top rear rail, all of which are connected together atthe eight primary corners by shipping container corner castings, whereinthe primary modules are positioned side by side in a row of modules andare attached together to form a substantially modular enclosure for thegeneration of electricity, wherein the primary modules include one ormore gen-set modules, each having an engine-generator disposed in theinterior thereof, and wherein the primary modules include a switchgearmodule having switchgear disposed in the interior thereof, wherein theswitchgear is ganged to at least one of the one or more gen-set modules;and a control system in communication with each of the gen-set modulesto coordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modulesas a unit and to control the loading of each of the generators inresponse to a power load demand, wherein the control system is disposedin one or more of the primary modules with at least part of the controlsystem being disposed in the switchgear module.

In a feature of this aspect, the primary modules may be attachedtogether via their respective corner castings.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module may be atransformer/switchgear module, the transformer/switchgear module has atransformer disposed in the interior thereof, and the transformer isconnected to the switchgear. In further features, the primary modulesmay further include a workroom module, and the control system is jointlydisposed in the workroom module and the transformer/switchgear module;the workroom module may be disposed adjacent a first side of thetransformer/switchgear module, and one of the one or more gen-setmodules is disposed on an opposite side of the transformer/switchgearmodule from the workroom module; the adjacency of the workroom module tothe transformer/switchgear module defines an interface, and theinterface is open to provide clearance around the transformer orswitchgear and improve access; and/or the workroom module may beattached to the transformer/switchgear module via their respectivecorner castings.

In another feature of this aspect, the primary modules may be mountedon, and attached to, a base frame or foundation. In further features,the base frame or foundation may include a plurality of modular basestructures, and each primary module is mounted on, and attached to, arespective modular base structure; and/or each primary module may beattached, via its corner castings, to the base frame or foundation.

In another feature of this aspect, each gen-set module may furtherinclude a dedicated fuel tank disposed in the interior thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include one or more secondary modules, wherein eachsecondary module includes eight primary corners and an interior space atleast partially enclosed by a top wall, a side wall, and an end wall,wherein each secondary module may be adapted from an intermodal shippingcontainer having four posts, a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottomside rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a top front rail, and a top rearrail, all of which are connected together at the eight primary cornersby shipping container corner castings, and wherein each secondary moduleis disposed at an end of, but on the same level as, a respective primarymodule of the row of side-by-side primary modules. In further features,the one or more secondary modules may include a fuel tank module, eachfuel tank module is disposed at the end of a respective gen-set module,and each fuel tank module houses a fuel tank, in an interior thereof,that provides auxiliary fuel to the engine-generator in the respectivegen-set module; each fuel tank module may include sound baffles,disposed in the interior thereof, to muffle sounds of combustion andflow of air in or out of the respective gen-set module; and/or the oneor more secondary modules may include a sound baffle module, each soundbaffle module is disposed at the end of a respective gen-set module, andeach sound baffle module houses sound baffles, in an interior thereof,to muffle sounds of combustion and flow of air in or out of therespective gen-set module.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include a staircase module having eight primary corners,wherein each primary corner of the staircase module is a shippingcontainer corner casting, wherein the staircase module is disposedalongside, and attached via the respective corner castings to, at leastone primary module in the row of side-by-side primary modules. Infurther features, the primary modules may have a common height, and eachstaircase module has a height, as measured from a top of a top cornercasting to a bottom of a bottom corner casting directly beneath, equalto the common height of the primary modules; and/or the primary modulesmay have a common width, and each staircase module has a width equal tothe common width of the primary modules.

In another feature of this aspect, the primary modules may have a commonlength.

In another feature of this aspect, the primary modules that arepositioned side by side in a row of modules may be attached together viaside attachment fittings that are each connected to one corner castingon a first primary module and a corresponding corner casting on a secondprimary module.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may include atleast one walk-through opening accessing the interior thereof, whereinthe at least one walk-through opening of each primary module is alignedwith the at least one walk-through opening of the primary moduleimmediately adjacent thereto, thereby providing access from the interiorof each primary module to the interior of the immediately adjacentprimary module.

In another feature of this aspect, adjacent primary modules may beattached together via side attachment fittings coupled between theirrespective corner castings.

In another feature of this aspect, portions of at least two of the wallsof each primary module may be corrugated shipping container walls.

In another feature of this aspect, each of one or more of the pluralityof primary modules may include a respective superstructure, extendingoutwardly from the end wall, that supports one or more operationalcomponent. In further features, at least one of the one or more gen-setmodules may include the superstructure; a respective fluid tank may bedisposed on each of at least one superstructure, external to theinterior space of the primary module; each respective fluid tank may bea diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; each respective fluid tank may be afuel tank; the switchgear module may include the superstructure; cablesrouted to/from an adjacent primary module may be supported on eachsuperstructure; each superstructure may include a horizontal ladderstructure, the respective horizontal ladder structures of horizontallyadjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, and cables arerouted to/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned horizontalladder structures; and/or each superstructure may include a verticalladder structure, the respective vertical ladder structures ofvertically adjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, andcables are routed to/from the adjacent primary modules via the alignedvertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amulti-level modular power generation facility, including: a firstplurality of primary modules, wherein the first plurality of primarymodules are positioned side by side in a row of modules, on a firstlevel, and are attached together to form a substantially modular firstlevel enclosure for the generation of electricity, wherein each primarymodule includes eight primary corners and an interior space at leastpartially enclosed by a top wall, a floor, a side wall, and an end wall,wherein the primary modules include one or more gen-set modules, eachhaving an engine-generator disposed in the interior thereof, and whereinthe primary modules include a first switchgear module having firstswitchgear disposed in the interior thereof, wherein the firstswitchgear is ganged to at least one of the one or more gen-set moduleson the first level; a first control system in communication with each ofthe gen-set modules in the first level to coordinate theengine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as a unit and tocontrol the loading of each of the generators in response to a powerload demand, wherein the first control system is disposed in one or moreof the primary modules of the first level with at least part of thefirst control system being disposed in the first switchgear module; asecond plurality of primary modules, wherein the second plurality ofprimary modules are positioned side by side in a row of modules, on asecond level, and are attached together to form a substantially modularsecond level enclosure for the generation of electricity, wherein eachprimary module includes eight primary corners and an interior space atleast partially enclosed by a top wall, a floor, a side wall, and an endwall, and wherein the primary modules include one or more gen-setmodules, each having an engine-generator disposed in the interiorthereof, and wherein the primary modules include a second switchgearmodule having switchgear disposed in the interior thereof, wherein thesecond switchgear is ganged to at least one of the one or more gen-setmodules on the second level; and a second control system incommunication with each of the gen-set modules in the second level tocoordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as aunit and to control the loading of each of the generators in response toa power load demand, wherein the second control system is disposed inone or more of the primary modules of the second level with at leastpart of the second control system being disposed in the secondswitchgear module; wherein the second plurality of primary modules arestacked on top of the first plurality of primary modules such that thesecond level enclosure is disposed on top of the first level enclosure.

In a feature of this aspect, in each level, all of the primary modulesmay have a common height.

In another feature of this aspect, in each level, the switchgear modulemay be a transformer/switchgear module, the respectivetransformer/switchgear module has a transformer disposed in the interiorthereof, and the respective transformer is connected to the respectiveswitchgear. In further features, in each level, the primary modulesfurther include a workroom module, and the respective control system isjointly disposed in the workroom module and the transformer/switchgearmodule; in each level, the workroom module may be disposed adjacent afirst side of the respective transformer/switchgear module, and one ofthe one or more gen-set modules is disposed on an opposite side of thetransformer/switchgear module from the workroom module; in each level,the adjacency of the workroom module to the transformer/switchgearmodule defines an interface, and the interface is open to provideclearance around the transformer or switchgear and improve access;and/or, in each level, the workroom module may be attached via therespective primary corners to the transformer/switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, the primary modules in the firstlevel may be mounted on, and attached to, a base frame or foundation. Infurther features, the base frame or foundation may include a pluralityof modular base structures, and each primary module in the first levelis mounted on, and attached to, a respective modular base structure;each primary module in the first level may be attached, via its primarycorners, to the base frame or foundation; in the first level, theprimary corners of each primary module of each type includes four bottomcorners, each of the bottom corners of each of the primary modules mayutilize a standardized connection structure, and the base frame orfoundation may include corresponding structures that couple to, and holdin place, the various bottom corners to hold the various primary modulesin place on the base frame or foundation; and/or the standardizedconnection structures may be corner castings from an intermodal shippingcontainer, and the corresponding structures of the base frame orfoundation may be twist lock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, in each level, each gen-set modulemay further include a dedicated fuel tank disposed in the interiorthereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the multi-level modular powergeneration facility may further include, in at least the first level,one or more secondary modules, wherein each secondary module is disposedat an end of as a respective primary module. In further features, in atleast the first level, each secondary module may have a height equal tothe common height of the primary modules; the one or more secondarymodules may include a fuel tank module, each fuel tank module isdisposed at the end of a respective gen-set module, and each fuel tankmodule houses a fuel tank, in an interior thereof, that provides fuel tothe engine-generator in the respective gen-set module; each fuel tankmodule may include sound baffles, disposed in the interior thereof, tomuffle sounds of combustion and flow of air in or out of the respectivegen-set module; and/or the one or more secondary modules may include asound baffle module, each sound baffle module is disposed at the end ofa respective gen-set module, and each sound baffle module houses soundbaffles, in an interior thereof, to muffle sounds of combustion and flowof air in or out of the respective gen-set module.

In another feature of this aspect, the multi-level modular powergeneration facility may further include, in at least the first level, astaircase module having eight primary corners, wherein the staircasemodule is disposed alongside, and attached via the respective primarycorners to, at least one primary module in the same level as thestaircase module. In a further feature, each staircase module may have aheight, as measured from a top of a top primary corner to a bottom of abottom primary corner directly beneath, equal to the common height ofthe primary modules in the same level.

In another feature of this aspect, in each level, all of the primarymodules may have a common length.

In another feature of this aspect, in each level, each primary modulemay be adapted from an intermodal shipping container having four posts,a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, arear sill, a top front rail, and a top rear rail, all of which areconnected together by shipping container corner castings, wherein theshipping container corner castings form the eight primary corners. Infurther features, in each level, each primary module may be attached toa body above or below it via the corner castings and corresponding twistlock fasteners; in each level, the primary modules that are positionedside by side in a row of modules may be attached together via sideattachment fittings that are each connected to one corner casting on afirst primary module and a corresponding corner casting on a secondprimary module; and/or portions of at least two of the walls of eachprimary module may be corrugated shipping container walls.

In another feature of this aspect, in each level, each primary modulemay include at least one walk-through opening accessing the interiorthereof, and the at least one walk-through opening of each primarymodule is aligned with the at least one walk-through opening of theprimary module immediately adjacent thereto, thereby providing accessfrom the interior of each primary module to the interior of theimmediately adjacent primary module.

In another feature of this aspect, in each level, each primary modulemay be attached via the respective primary corners to the primary moduleimmediately adjacent thereto.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear in the firstswitchgear module may be operatively connected to the switchgear in thesecond switchgear module. In further features, the top wall of the firstswitchgear module may include a vertical cable chase through whichinterconnect cables are routed from the switchgear in the firstswitchgear module to the switchgear in the second switchgear module;and/or the floor of the second switchgear module may include a verticalcable chase through which interconnect cables are routed from theswitchgear in the first switchgear module to the switchgear in thesecond switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, the multi-level modular powergeneration facility may further include: a third plurality of primarymodules, wherein the third plurality of primary modules are positionedside by side in a row of modules, on a third level, and may be attachedtogether to form a substantially modular third level enclosure for thegeneration of electricity, wherein each primary module includes eightprimary corners and an interior space at least partially enclosed by atop wall, a side wall, and an end wall, wherein the primary modulesinclude one or more gen-set modules, each having an engine-generatordisposed in the interior thereof, and wherein the primary modulesinclude a third switchgear module having switchgear disposed in theinterior thereof, wherein the third switchgear is ganged to at least oneof the one or more gen-set modules on the third level; and a thirdcontrol system in communication with each of the gen-set modules in thethird level to coordinate the engine-generators of the one or moregen-set modules as a unit and to control the loading of each of thegenerators in response to a power load demand, wherein the third controlsystem is disposed in one or more of the primary modules of the thirdlevel with at least part of the third control system being disposed inthe third switchgear module; wherein the third plurality of primarymodules are stacked on top of the second plurality of primary modulessuch that the third level enclosure is disposed on top of the secondlevel enclosure.

In another feature of this aspect, each of one or more of the first andsecond pluralities of primary modules may include a respectivesuperstructure, extending outwardly from the end wall, that supports oneor more operational component. In further features, at least one of theone or more gen-set modules of each of the first and second pluralitiesof primary modules may include the superstructure; a respective fluidtank may be disposed on each of at least one superstructure, external tothe interior space of the primary module; each respective fluid tank maybe a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; each respective fluid tank may bea fuel tank; each of the first and second switchgear modules may includethe superstructure; cables routed to/from an adjacent primary module maybe supported on each superstructure; each superstructure may include ahorizontal ladder structure, the respective horizontal ladder structuresof horizontally adjacent primary modules are aligned with each other,and cables are routed to/from the adjacent primary modules via thealigned horizontal ladder structures; and/or each superstructure mayinclude a vertical ladder structure, the respective vertical ladderstructures of vertically adjacent primary modules are aligned with eachother, and cables are routed to/from the adjacent primary modules viathe aligned vertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is agen-set module for use in a modular power generation facility,including: a housing adapted from an intermodal shipping containerhaving four posts, a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottom siderails, a front sill, a rear sill, a top front rail, and a top rear rail,all of which are connected together at eight primary corners by shippingcontainer corner castings, the housing defining an interior space atleast partially enclosed by a top wall, a floor, a side wall, and an endwall; an engine-generator, disposed in the interior of the housing, thatgenerates electricity using a fuel, wherein the module, with theengine-generator operatively installed therein, is adapted to betransported to a use site using the shipping container corner castingsas attachment points for such transportation; and a superstructure,extending outwardly from the end wall, that supports one or moreoperational component.

In a feature of this aspect, the gen-set module may further include adedicated fuel tank, disposed in the interior of the housing, that isoperatively connected to the engine-generator to provide the fuel usedby the engine-generator to generate electricity for delivery to atransformer disposed outside the housing, and the module, with theengine-generator and dedicated fuel tank operatively installed therein,is adapted to be transported to a use site using the shipping containercorner castings as attachment points for such transportation.

In another feature of this aspect, the gen-set module may furtherinclude an exhaust pipe extending from the engine-generator through anexterior wall of the shipping container housing. In a further feature,the exhaust pipe may extend through an end wall of the shippingcontainer housing.

In another feature of this aspect, an exterior wall may be penetrated bya cable slot through which interconnect cables may pass for connectionto other components of the modular power generation facility. In furtherfeatures, the cable slot may penetrate through a side wall of theshipping container housing; the cable slot may penetrate through a leftside wall of the shipping container housing, the cable slot is a firstcable slot, and a second cable slot may penetrate through a right sidewall of the shipping container housing; the first and second cable slotsare disposed directly across from each other on opposite sides of theshipping container housing; a cable tray extends, within the interior ofthe shipping container housing, from the first cable slot to the secondcable slot; the side wall that is penetrated by the cable slot may alsobe penetrated by a doorway that is located immediately adjacent to thecable slot; a frame may surround the cable slot and the doorway, whereinthe frame is adapted to be sealed against a complementary structure on aseparate module disposed immediately adjacent the respective side of theshipping container housing; the cable slot may penetrate through the topwall of the shipping container housing; the cable slot is a first cableslot, and a second cable slot may penetrate through the floor of theshipping container housing; and/or the second cable slot may be directlybeneath the first cable slot.

In another feature of this aspect, a first doorway may be provided in aleft side wall of the shipping container housing, and a second doorwaymay be provided in a right side wall of the shipping container housing.In further features, a passageway extends, within the interior space,from the first doorway to the second doorway; the first doorway may bedisposed directly opposite the second doorway; the first doorway issurrounded by a first frame that is disposed on the exterior of the leftside wall, the second doorway is surrounded by a second frame that isdisposed on the exterior of the right side wall, and wherein each of thefirst and second frames are adapted to be sealed against a complementarystructure on a separate module disposed immediately adjacent therespective side of the shipping container housing; the first and secondframes may be complementary relative to one another such that when theshipping container housing is placed immediately adjacent an identicalshipping container housing, the first frame of one identical shippingcontainer is sealed against the second frame of the other identicalshipping container; one of the first and second frames may be an outerframe and the other of the first and second frames may be an inner framesuch that when the shipping container housing is placed immediatelyadjacent an identical shipping container housing, the outer frame of oneidentical shipping container overlaps and fits around the inner frame ofthe other identical shipping container, thereby sealing the doorwaysagainst the outside environment.

In another feature of this aspect, an exterior wall may be penetrated bya fuel line access port through fuel may be provided from an externalfuel tank module. In further features, the fuel line access port mayinclude an opening that penetrates through an end wall of the shippingcontainer housing; and/or the access port may include a removable coversealing the opening when not in use.

In another feature of this aspect, an exhaust pipe may extend from theengine-generator through an exterior wall and extends a distance beyondthe exterior wall. In further features, the exhaust pipe may penetratethrough an end wall of the shipping container housing; the end wall thatis penetrated by the exhaust pipe may include at least one ventilationopening; the at least one ventilation opening may occupy at least aquarter of the area of the end wall; and/or the at least one ventilationopening may be covered by louvers.

In another feature of this aspect, the end wall may be penetrated by atleast one ventilation opening that occupies substantially all of thearea of the end wall. In a further feature, the end wall may include apair of swinging doors, and the at least one ventilation opening mayinclude at least one ventilation opening penetrating each of theswinging doors.

In another feature of this aspect, the engine-generator is adiesel-fired generator. In further features, the gen-set module mayfurther include a selective catalyst reduction (SCR) system and a dieselexhaust fluid (DEF) tank operatively connected to the engine-generator,wherein the DEF tank is supported on the superstructure external to theinterior space; and/or the diesel-fired generator satisfies the EPA Tier4 Final emissions standards.

In another feature of this aspect, the engine-generator is a naturalgas-fired generator.

In another feature of this aspect, the gen-set module may furtherinclude a plurality of side attachment fittings, wherein each sideattachment fitting is coupled to a respective corner casting and isadapted to couple to a corner casting on an adjacent shipping containerhousing.

In another feature of this aspect, portions of at least two of the wallsof each primary module may be corrugated shipping container walls.

In another feature of this aspect, a fluid tank may be disposed on thesuperstructure, external to the interior space. In further features, thefluid tank may be a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; and/or the fluidtank may be a fuel tank.

In another feature of this aspect, the superstructure is adapted toroute cables to/from an adjacent module. In further features, thesuperstructure may include a horizontal ladder structure that is adaptedto be aligned with a horizontal ladder structure of a horizontallyadjacent gen-set module such that cables may be routed to/from theadjacent gen-set module via the aligned horizontal ladder structures;and/or the superstructure may include a vertical ladder structure thatis adapted to be aligned with a vertical ladder structure of avertically adjacent gen-set module such that cables may be routedto/from the adjacent gen-set module via the aligned vertical ladderstructures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is aswitchgear module for use in a modular power generation facility,including: a housing adapted from an intermodal shipping containerhaving four posts, a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottom siderails, a front sill, a rear sill, a top front rail, and a top rear rail,all of which are connected together at eight primary corners by shippingcontainer corner castings, the housing defining an interior space atleast partially enclosed by a top wall, a floor, a side wall, and an endwall; input switchgear operatively connected to a step-up transformerand adapted to connect to an engine-generator, located outside thehousing, such that the engine-generator may be controlled to deliverelectricity to the step-up transformer via the input switchgear; and atleast a portion of a control system adapted to communicate with theengine-generator so as to control the engine-generator and to controlthe loading of the engine-generator in response to a power load demand;wherein the module, with the input switchgear operatively installedtherein, is adapted to be transported to a use site using the shippingcontainer corner castings as attachment points for such transportation.

In a feature of this aspect, the step-up transformer is disposed in theinterior of the housing, the step-up transformer is operativelyconnected to the input switchgear, and the step-up transformer receiveselectricity from the engine-generator. In a further feature, the module,with the step-up transformer and the input switchgear operativelyinstalled therein, is adapted to be transported to a use site using theshipping container corner castings as attachment points for suchtransportation.

In another feature of this aspect, an exterior wall may be penetrated bya cable slot through which interconnect cables may pass for connectionto other components of the modular power generation facility. In furtherfeatures, the cable slot may penetrate through a side wall of theshipping container housing; the side wall that is penetrated by thecable slot may also be penetrated by a doorway that is locatedimmediately adjacent to the cable slot; a frame may surround the cableslot and the doorway, wherein the frame is adapted to be sealed againsta complementary structure on a separate module disposed immediatelyadjacent the respective side of the shipping container housing; thecable slot may penetrate through the top wall of the shipping containerhousing; the cable slot is a first cable slot, and a second cable slotmay penetrate through the floor of the shipping container housing;and/or the second cable slot may be directly beneath the first cableslot.

In another feature of this aspect, a first doorway or opening isprovided in a first side wall of the shipping container housing, and asecond doorway or opening is provided in a second side wall of theshipping container housing, the second side wall is opposite the firstside wall. In further features, a passageway extends, within theinterior space, from the first doorway or opening to the second doorwayor opening; the first doorway or opening is disposed directly oppositethe second doorway or opening; the second doorway or opening is an openinterface extending along substantially the entire length of the secondside wall; at least one of the first and second doorways or openings issurrounded by a frame that is disposed on the exterior of the respectiveside wall, and the frame is adapted to be sealed against a complementarystructure on a separate shipping container module disposed immediatelyadjacent the respective side of the shipping container housing; and/orone of the frame and the complementary structure is an outer frame andthe other of the frame and the complementary structure is an inner framesuch that when the shipping container housing is placed immediatelyadjacent the separate shipping container module, the outer frame of onemodule container overlaps and fits around the inner frame of the othershipping container, thereby sealing the doorways against the outsideenvironment.

In another feature of this aspect, the end wall includes a pair ofswinging doors.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module may furtherinclude a plurality of side attachment fittings, wherein, in use, eachside attachment fitting is coupled to a respective corner casting and isadapted to couple to a corner casting on an adjacent shipping containerhousing.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module may furtherinclude output switchgear operatively connected to the step-uptransformer and adapted to connect to a power grid such that theengine-generator may be controlled to deliver electricity from thestep-up transformer to the power grid via the output switchgear.

In another feature of this aspect, portions of at least two of the wallsof each primary module may be corrugated shipping container walls.

In another feature of this aspect, a superstructure extends outwardlyfrom the end wall and supports one or more operational componentthereon. In further features, the superstructure is adapted to routecables to/from an adjacent module; the superstructure may include ahorizontal ladder structure that is adapted to be aligned with ahorizontal ladder structure of a horizontally adjacent gen-set modulesuch that cables may be routed to/from the adjacent gen-set module viathe aligned horizontal ladder structures; and/or the superstructure mayinclude a vertical ladder structure that is adapted to be aligned with avertical ladder structure of a vertically adjacent gen-set module suchthat cables may be routed to/from the adjacent gen-set module via thealigned vertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amethod of erecting a modular power generation facility, including:producing a plurality of primary modules, wherein each primary moduleincluding a housing that is adapted from an intermodal shippingcontainer having four posts, a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottomside rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a top front rail, and a top rearrail, all of which are connected together at the eight primary cornersby shipping container corner castings, wherein each primary moduleincludes an interior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall, aside wall, wherein the primary modules include one or more gen-setmodules, each having an engine-generator operatively installed in theinterior thereof, and wherein the primary modules include a switchgearmodule having switchgear operatively installed in the interior thereof;shipping the plurality of primary modules, with the respectiveengine-generator or switchgear operatively installed therein, to aninstallation location; at the installation location, positioning theprimary modules, with the respective engine-generator or switchgearoperatively installed therein, side by side in a row; attaching theprimary modules, with the respective engine-generator or switchgearoperatively installed therein, to one another side by side in a row,thereby forming a substantially modular enclosure; interconnecting theengine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules with the switchgearof the switchgear module; and operating the engine-generators and theswitchgear to provide electricity to a transformer connected to theswitchgear in response to a power load demand.

In a feature of this aspect, the operating step includes using a controlsystem, arranged in communication with each of the gen-set modules, tocoordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as aunit and to control the loading of each of the generators in response toa power load demand.

In another feature of this aspect, the shipping step is carried out byhandling and transporting the shipping container-based primary modules,each with a respective engine-generator or switchgear operativelyinstalled therein, using the corner castings of the respective shippingcontainer housings. In a further feature, at least some of theswitchgear modules are transformer/switchgear modules, eachtransformer/switchgear module has a transformer operatively installed inthe interior thereof and operatively connected to the respectiveswitchgear, the shipping step is carried out for eachtransformer/switchgear module with the respective transformeroperatively installed therein, and the operating step is carried out foreach transformer/switchgear module using the transformer installedtherein.

In another feature of this aspect, the positioning step includesmaneuvering the shipping container-based primary modules, each with arespective engine-generator or switchgear operatively installed therein,using the corner castings of the respective shipping container housings.

In another feature of this aspect, the positioning step includesattaching the primary modules to a base frame or foundation via twistlock fasteners mounted to the base frame or foundation, thereby holdingthe modules in place thereon.

In another feature of this aspect, the operating step is carried out fora period of time, the method may further include a subsequent step ofterminating the operating step, the method may further include attachingan additional primary module, which is an additional gen-set module, tothe row of existing primary modules, the method may further includeinterconnecting the engine-generator of the additional gen-set module tothe switchgear of the switchgear module, and the method may furtherinclude reinitiating the operating step. In a further feature, themethod may further include a step, prior to the step of attaching anadditional primary module and after the terminating step, of removingone of the one or more gen-set modules, and the step of attaching anadditional gen-set module includes attaching the additional module as areplacement for the removed module.

In another feature of this aspect, the method may further include a stepof producing a staircase module having eight primary corners, whereineach primary corner of the staircase module is a shipping containercorner casting, and wherein the method may further include attaching thestaircase module to at least one primary module in the row ofside-by-side primary modules. In further features, the step of attachingthe staircase module to the at least one primary module is carried outvia respective corner castings on the staircase module and the at leastone primary module; the step of attaching the staircase module to the atleast one primary module is carried out via side attachment fittingscoupled between the respective corner castings on the staircase moduleand the at least one primary module; the method may further include astep of shipping the staircase module to the installation location,wherein the shipping step is carried out by handling and transportingthe staircase module using the corner castings of the staircase module;the method may further include a step, prior to the step of attachingthe staircase module to the at least one primary module, of maneuveringthe staircase module into place next to the at least one primary module,and the maneuvering step is carried out using the corner castings of thestaircase module; and/or the method may further include a step, prior tothe step of attaching the staircase module to the at least one primarymodule, of attaching the staircase module to a base frame or foundationvia twist lock fasteners mounted to the base frame or foundation,thereby holding the staircase module in place thereon.

In another feature of this aspect, the method may further include stepsof producing a secondary module that includes a housing adapted from anintermodal shipping container having four posts, a pair of top siderails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a topfront rail, and a top rear rail, all of which are connected together atthe eight primary corners by shipping container corner castings,maneuvering the secondary module into place at an end of a first of theat least one primary modules, and attaching the secondary module to theend of the first primary module using the corner castings of therespective shipping container housings. In further features, the firstprimary module is a gen-set module, the secondary module is a fuel tankmodule housing a fuel tank, and the method may further includeoperatively connecting the fuel tank to the engine-generator of thegen-set module in the first primary module such that fuel is providedfrom the fuel tank to the engine-generator; and/or the first primarymodule is a gen-set module, the secondary module includes a sound bafflemodule housing sound baffles, and the method may further includemuffling sounds of combustion or flow of air in or out of the firstprimary module.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more gen-set modules are afirst set of gen-set modules, the switchgear module is a firstswitchgear module, the first set of gen-set modules and the firstswitchgear module are positioned side by a side in a row on a firstlevel, the step of producing a plurality of primary modules alsoincludes producing at least a second set of the gen-set modules and atleast a second switchgear module, the method may further include a stepof positioning the second set of primary modules side by side in a rowon a second level, each shipping container housing of the second set ofprimary modules, each with a respective engine-generator or switchgearoperatively installed therein, is placed on a respective shippingcontainer housing of the first set of gen-set modules and firstswitchgear module, the method may further include interconnecting theengine-generators of the second set of gen-set modules with theswitchgear of the second switchgear module, and the operating stepincludes operating the first and second sets of engine-generators andthe first and second switchgear to provide electricity to transformersconnected to the respective switchgear in response to a power loaddemand. In further features, all of the primary modules may have acommon height; all of the primary modules may have a common length;and/or the step of positioning the second set of primary modules side byside in a row on the second level includes attaching each of the primarymodules in the second level to a respective primary module in the firstlevel via twist lock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, the method may further include a stepof installing a respective superstructure on each of one or more of theplurality of primary modules, the superstructure extending outwardlyfrom the end wall, and a step of supporting one or more operationalcomponent on the superstructure. In further features, at least one ofthe one or more gen-set modules may include the superstructure; the stepof a supporting one more operational component on the superstructureincludes supporting a respective fluid tank on each superstructure,external to the interior space of the respective primary module; eachrespective fluid tank may be a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; eachrespective fluid tank may be a fuel tank; the switchgear module mayinclude the superstructure; the step of a supporting one moreoperational component on the superstructure includes supporting cablesthat are routed to/from an adjacent primary module; each superstructuremay include a horizontal ladder structure, the respective horizontalladder structures of horizontally adjacent primary modules are alignedwith each other, and cables are routed to/from the adjacent primarymodules via the aligned horizontal ladder structures; and/or eachsuperstructure may include a vertical ladder structure, the respectivevertical ladder structures of vertically adjacent primary modules arealigned with each other, and cables are routed to/from the adjacentprimary modules via the aligned vertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amodular power generation facility, including: a plurality of primarymodules, wherein each primary module includes eight primary corners andan interior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall, a sidewall, and an end wall, wherein the primary modules are positioned in avertical stack of modules and are attached together to form asubstantially modular enclosure for the generation of electricity,wherein the primary modules include one or more gen-set modules, eachhaving an engine-generator and a dedicated fuel tank disposed in theinterior thereof, wherein the fuel tank provides fuel to theengine-generator, and wherein the primary modules include a switchgearmodule having switchgear disposed in the interior thereof, wherein theswitchgear is ganged to at least one of the one or more gen-set modules;and a control system in communication with each of the gen-set modulesto coordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modulesas a unit and to control the loading of each of the generators inresponse to a power load demand, wherein the control system is disposedin one or more of the primary modules with at least part of the controlsystem being disposed in the switchgear module.

In a feature of this aspect, all of the primary modules may have acommon width.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module is atransformer/switchgear module, the transformer/switchgear module has atransformer disposed in the interior thereof, and the transformer isconnected to the switchgear. In a further feature, the primary modulesmay further include a workroom module, and the control system is jointlydisposed in the workroom module and the transformer/switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, a lowermost primary module, of thevertical stack of primary modules, is mounted on, and attached to, abase frame or foundation. In further features, the primary corners ofthe lowermost primary module includes four bottom corners, wherein eachof the bottom corners of the lowermost primary module utilizes astandardized connection structure, and the base frame or foundationincludes corresponding structures that couple to, and hold in place, thebottom corners to hold the lowermost primary module in place on the baseframe or foundation; and/or the standardized connection structures maybe corner castings from an intermodal shipping container, and thecorresponding structures of the base frame or foundation may be twistlock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include one or more secondary modules, wherein eachsecondary module is disposed at an end of, but on the same level as, arespective primary module of the vertical stack of primary modules. Infurther features, each secondary module may have a width equal to thecommon width of the primary modules; the one or more secondary modulesmay include a fuel tank module, each fuel tank module is disposed at theend of a respective gen-set module, and wherein each fuel tank modulehouses a fuel tank, in an interior thereof, that provides auxiliary fuelto the engine-generator in the respective gen-set module; each fuel tankmodule may include sound baffles, disposed in the interior thereof, tomuffle sounds of combustion and flow of air in or out of the respectivegen-set module; and/or the one or more secondary modules may include asound baffle module, wherein each sound baffle module is disposed at theend of a respective gen-set module, and wherein each sound baffle modulehouses sound baffles, in an interior thereof, to muffle sounds ofcombustion and flow of air in or out of the respective gen-set module.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilityof may further include a staircase module having eight primary corners,wherein the staircase module is disposed alongside, and attached via therespective primary corners to, at least one primary module in thevertical stack of primary modules. In further features, all of theprimary modules may have a common height, and each staircase module mayhave a height, as measured from a top of a top primary corner to abottom of a bottom primary corner directly beneath, equal to the commonheight of the primary modules; and/or the staircase module is one of aplurality of staircase modules positioned in a vertical stack ofstaircase modules, wherein each staircase module is attached to aprimary module beside it via side attachment fittings that are eachconnected to one corner on the staircase module and a correspondingcorner on the primary module beside the staircase module.

In another feature of this aspect, all of the primary modules may have acommon length.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may be adaptedfrom an intermodal shipping container having four posts, a pair of topside rails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, a rear sill, atop front rail, and a top rear rail, all of which are connected togetherby shipping container corner castings, wherein the shipping containercorner castings form the eight primary corners. In further features,each primary module is attached to a body above or below it via thecorner castings and corresponding twist lock fasteners; each primarymodule may be attached to an additional primary module beside it viaside attachment fittings that are each connected to one corner castingon a first primary module and a corresponding corner casting on a secondprimary module; portions of at least two of the walls of each primarymodule may be corrugated shipping container walls; the modular powergeneration facility may further include a vertical stack of staircasemodules, each staircase module having eight primary corners, whereineach primary corner of the staircase module is a shipping containercorner casting, the vertical stack of staircase modules is disposedalongside the vertical stack of primary modules, and each staircasemodule is disposed alongside, and attached via the respective cornercastings to, a respective primary module in the vertical stack ofprimary modules.

In another feature of this aspect, the vertical stack of primary modulesis a first vertical stack of primary modules, a second vertical stack ofprimary modules is disposed immediately adjacent the first verticalstack of primary modules, each primary module may include at least onewalk-through opening accessing the interior thereof, and the at leastone walk-through opening of each primary module in the first verticalstack is aligned with the at least one walk-through opening of theprimary module immediately adjacent thereto in the second verticalstack, thereby providing access from the interior of each primary moduleto the interior of the immediately adjacent primary module.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module, other than alowermost primary module, is attached via the respective primary cornersto the primary module immediately therebelow.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module is thelowermost primary module in the vertical stack of primary modules. In afurther feature, a transformer is disposed at an end of, but exteriorto, the switchgear module and is electrically connected to theswitchgear in the switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, each of one or more of the pluralityof primary modules may include a respective superstructure extendingoutwardly from the end wall that supports one or more operationalcomponent. In further features, at least one of the one or more gen-setmodules may include the superstructure; a respective fluid tank may bedisposed on each of at least one superstructure, external to theinterior space of the primary module; each respective fluid tank may bea diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; each respective fluid tank may be afuel tank; the switchgear module may include the superstructure; cablesrouted to/from an adjacent primary module may be supported on eachsuperstructure; each superstructure may include a horizontal ladderstructure, the respective horizontal ladder structures of horizontallyadjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, and cables arerouted to/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned horizontalladder structures; and/or each superstructure may include a verticalladder structure, the respective vertical ladder structures ofvertically adjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, andcables are routed to/from the adjacent primary modules via the alignedvertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amodular power generation facility, including: a plurality of primarymodules, wherein all of the primary modules may have a common height,wherein each primary module includes eight primary corners and aninterior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall, a side wall,and an end wall, wherein the primary modules are positioned in avertical stack of modules and are attached together to form asubstantially modular enclosure for the generation of electricity,wherein the primary modules include one or more gen-set modules, eachhaving an engine-generator disposed in the interior thereof, and whereinthe primary modules include a switchgear module having switchgeardisposed in the interior thereof, wherein the switchgear is ganged to atleast one of the one or more gen-set modules; and a control system incommunication with each of the gen-set modules to coordinate theengine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as a unit and tocontrol the loading of each of the generators in response to a powerload demand, wherein the control system is disposed in one or more ofthe primary modules with at least part of the control system beingdisposed in the switchgear module; wherein the various primary modulesare interchangeable, due to their common height, such that at asubsequent time a primary module may be removed from the row of modulesand replaced by another primary module of the same or different type.

In a feature of this aspect, all of the primary modules may have acommon width.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module may be atransformer/switchgear module, the transformer/switchgear module has atransformer disposed in the interior thereof, and the transformer isconnected to the switchgear. In a further feature, the primary modulesmay further include a workroom module, and the control system is jointlydisposed in the workroom module and the transformer/switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, a lowermost primary module, of thevertical stack of primary modules, is mounted on, and attached to, abase frame or foundation. In further features, the primary corners ofthe lowermost primary module includes four bottom corners, each of thebottom corners of the lowermost primary module utilizes a standardizedconnection structure, and the base frame or foundation includescorresponding structures that couple to, and hold in place, the variousbottom corners to hold the lowermost primary module in place on the baseframe or foundation; and/or the standardized connection structures maybe corner castings from an intermodal shipping container, and thecorresponding structures of the base frame or foundation may be twistlock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, each gen-set module may furtherinclude a dedicated fuel tank disposed in the interior thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include one or more secondary modules, each having a heightequal to the common width of the primary modules, wherein each secondarymodule is disposed at an end of, but on the same level as, a respectiveprimary module of the vertical stack of primary modules. In furtherfeatures, each secondary module may have a width equal to the commonwidth of the primary modules; the one or more secondary modules mayinclude a fuel tank module, each fuel tank module is disposed at the endof a respective gen-set module, and each fuel tank module houses a fueltank, in an interior thereof, that provides fuel to the engine-generatorin the respective gen-set module; each fuel tank module may includesound baffles, disposed in the interior thereof, to muffle sounds ofcombustion and flow of air in or out of the respective gen-set module;and/or the one or more secondary modules may include a sound bafflemodule, wherein each sound baffle module is disposed at the end of arespective gen-set module, and wherein each sound baffle module housessound baffles, in an interior thereof, to muffle sounds of combustionand flow of air in or out of the respective gen-set module.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include a staircase module having eight primary corners,wherein the staircase module is disposed alongside, and attached via therespective primary corners to, at least one primary module in thevertical stack of primary modules. In further features, each staircasemodule may have a height, as measured from a top of a top primary cornerto a bottom of a bottom primary corner directly beneath, equal to thecommon height of the primary modules; and/or the staircase module is oneof a plurality of staircase modules positioned in a vertical stack ofstaircase modules, wherein each staircase module is attached to aprimary module beside it via side attachment fittings that are eachconnected to one corner on the staircase module and a correspondingcorner on the primary module beside the staircase module.

In another feature of this aspect, all of the primary modules may have acommon length.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may be adaptedfrom an intermodal shipping container having four posts, a pair of topside rails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, a rear sill, atop front rail, and a top rear rail, all of which are connected togetherby shipping container corner castings, wherein the shipping containercorner castings form the eight primary corners. In further features,each primary module is attached to a body above or below it via thecorner castings and corresponding twist lock fasteners; each primarymodule may be attached to an additional primary module beside it viaside attachment fittings that are each connected to one corner castingon a first primary module and a corresponding corner casting on a secondprimary module; portions of at least two of the walls of each primarymodule may be corrugated shipping container walls; and/or the modularpower generation facility may further include a vertical stack ofstaircase modules, each staircase module having eight primary corners,wherein each primary corner of the staircase module is a shippingcontainer corner casting, wherein the vertical stack of staircasemodules is disposed alongside the vertical stack of primary modules, andwherein each staircase module is disposed alongside, and attached viathe respective corner castings to, a respective primary module in thevertical stack of primary modules.

In another feature of this aspect, the vertical stack of primary modulesis a first vertical stack of primary modules, a second vertical stack ofprimary modules is disposed immediately adjacent the first verticalstack of primary modules, each primary module may include at least onewalk-through opening accessing the interior thereof, and the at leastone walk-through opening of each primary module in the first verticalstack is aligned with the at least one walk-through opening of theprimary module immediately adjacent thereto in the second verticalstack, thereby providing access from the interior of each primary moduleto the interior of the immediately adjacent primary module.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module, other than alowermost primary module, is attached via the respective primary cornersto the primary module immediately therebelow.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module is thelowermost primary module in the vertical stack of modules. In a featureof this aspect, a transformer is disposed at an end of, but exterior to,the switchgear module and is electrically connected to the switchgear inthe switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, each of one or more of the pluralityof primary modules may include a respective superstructure, extendingoutwardly from the end wall, that supports one or more operationalcomponent. In further features, at least one of the one or more gen-setmodules may include the superstructure; a respective fluid tank may bedisposed on each of at least one superstructure, external to theinterior space of the primary module; each respective fluid tank may bea diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; each respective fluid tank may be afuel tank; the switchgear module may include the superstructure; cablesrouted to/from an adjacent primary module may be supported on eachsuperstructure; each superstructure may include a horizontal ladderstructure, the respective horizontal ladder structures of horizontallyadjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, and cables arerouted to/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned horizontalladder structures; and/or each superstructure may include a verticalladder structure, the respective vertical ladder structures ofvertically adjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, andcables are routed to/from the adjacent primary modules via the alignedvertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amodular power generation facility, including: a plurality of primarymodules, wherein each primary module includes eight primary corners andan interior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall, a sidewall, and an end wall, wherein each primary module is adapted from anintermodal shipping container having four posts, a pair of top siderails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a topfront rail, and a top rear rail, all of which are connected together atthe eight primary corners by shipping container corner castings, whereinthe primary modules are positioned in a vertical stack of modules andare attached together to form a substantially modular enclosure for thegeneration of electricity, wherein the primary modules include one ormore gen-set modules, each having an engine-generator disposed in theinterior thereof, and wherein the primary modules include a switchgearmodule having switchgear disposed in the interior thereof, wherein theswitchgear is ganged to at least one of the one or more gen-set modules;and a control system in communication with each of the gen-set modulesto coordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modulesas a unit and to control the loading of each of the generators inresponse to a power load demand, wherein the control system is disposedin one or more of the primary modules with at least part of the controlsystem being disposed in the switchgear module.

In a feature of this aspect, the primary modules may be attachedtogether via their respective corner castings.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear module may be atransformer/switchgear module, the transformer/switchgear module has atransformer disposed in the interior thereof, and the transformer isconnected to the switchgear. In a further feature, the primary modulesmay further include a workroom module, and the control system is jointlydisposed in the workroom module and the transformer/switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, a lowermost primary module, of thevertical stack of the primary modules, is mounted on, and attached to, abase frame or foundation.

In another feature of this aspect, each gen-set module may furtherinclude a dedicated fuel tank disposed in the interior thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include one or more secondary modules, wherein eachsecondary module includes eight primary corners and an interior space atleast partially enclosed by a top wall, a side wall, and an end wall,wherein each secondary module may be adapted from an intermodal shippingcontainer having four posts, a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottomside rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a top front rail, and a top rearrail, all of which are connected together at the eight primary cornersby shipping container corner castings, and wherein each secondary moduleis disposed at an end of, but on the same level as, a respective primarymodule of the vertical stack of primary modules. In further features,the one or more secondary modules may include a fuel tank module, eachfuel tank module is disposed at the end of a respective gen-set module,and each fuel tank module houses a fuel tank, in an interior thereof,that provides auxiliary fuel to the engine-generator in the respectivegen-set module; each fuel tank module may include sound baffles,disposed in the interior thereof, to muffle sounds of combustion andflow of air in or out of the respective gen-set module; the one or moresecondary modules may include a sound baffle module, wherein each soundbaffle module is disposed at the end of a respective gen-set module, andwherein each sound baffle module houses sound baffles, in an interiorthereof, to muffle sounds of combustion and flow of air in or out of therespective gen-set module.

In another feature of this aspect, the modular power generation facilitymay further include a staircase module having eight primary corners,wherein each primary corner of the staircase module is a shippingcontainer corner casting, wherein the staircase module is disposedalongside, and attached via the respective corner castings to, at leastone primary module in the vertical stack of primary modules. In furtherfeatures, the primary modules may have a common height, and eachstaircase module has a height, as measured from a top of a top cornercasting to a bottom of a bottom corner casting directly beneath, equalto the common height of the primary modules; and/or the primary modulesmay have a common width, and each staircase module has a width equal tothe common width of the primary modules.

In another feature of this aspect, the primary modules may have a commonlength.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module is attached to abody above or below it via the corner castings and corresponding twistlock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, the vertical stack of primary modulesis a first vertical stack of primary modules, a second vertical stack ofprimary modules is disposed immediately adjacent the first verticalstack of primary modules, each primary module may include at least onewalk-through opening accessing the interior thereof, and the at leastone walk-through opening of each primary module in the first verticalstack is aligned with the at least one walk-through opening of theprimary module immediately adjacent thereto in the second verticalstack, thereby providing access from the interior of each primary moduleto the interior of the immediately adjacent primary module.

In another feature of this aspect, portions of at least two of the wallsof each primary module may be corrugated shipping container walls.

In another feature of this aspect, each of one or more of the pluralityof primary modules may include a respective superstructure, extendingoutwardly from the end wall, that supports one or more operationalcomponent. In further features, at least one of the one or more gen-setmodules may include the superstructure; a respective fluid tank may bedisposed on each of at least one superstructure, external to theinterior space of the primary module; each respective fluid tank may bea diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; each respective fluid tank may be afuel tank; the switchgear module may include the superstructure; cablesrouted to/from an adjacent primary module may be supported on eachsuperstructure; each superstructure may include a horizontal ladderstructure, the respective horizontal ladder structures of horizontallyadjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, and cables arerouted to/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned horizontalladder structures; and/or each superstructure may include a verticalladder structure, the respective vertical ladder structures ofvertically adjacent primary modules are aligned with each other, andcables are routed to/from the adjacent primary modules via the alignedvertical ladder structures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amulti-stack modular power generation facility, including: a firstplurality of primary modules, wherein the first plurality of primarymodules are positioned in a first vertical stack of modules and areattached together to form a substantially modular first verticalenclosure for the generation of electricity, wherein each primary moduleincludes eight primary corners and an interior space at least partiallyenclosed by a top wall, a floor, a side wall, and an end wall, whereinthe primary modules include one or more gen-set modules, each having anengine-generator disposed in the interior thereof, and wherein theprimary modules include a first switchgear module having firstswitchgear disposed in the interior thereof, wherein the firstswitchgear is ganged to at least one of the one or more gen-set modulesin the first vertical stack of primary modules; a first control systemin communication with each of the gen-set modules in the first verticalstack of primary modules to coordinate the engine-generators of the oneor more gen-set modules as a unit and to control the loading of each ofthe generators in response to a power load demand, wherein the firstcontrol system is disposed in one or more of the primary modules of thefirst vertical stack with at least part of the first control systembeing disposed in the first switchgear module; a second plurality ofprimary modules, wherein the second plurality of primary modules arepositioned in a second vertical stack of modules and are attachedtogether to form a substantially modular second vertical enclosure forthe generation of electricity, wherein each primary module includeseight primary corners and an interior space at least partially enclosedby a top wall, a floor, a side wall, and an end wall, wherein theprimary modules include one or more gen-set modules, each having anengine-generator disposed in the interior thereof, and wherein theprimary modules include a second switchgear module having switchgeardisposed in the interior thereof, wherein the second switchgear isganged to at least one of the one or more gen-set modules in the secondvertical stack of primary modules; and a second control system incommunication with each of the gen-set modules in the second verticalstack of primary modules to coordinate the engine-generators of the oneor more gen-set modules as a unit and to control the loading of each ofthe generators in response to a power load demand, wherein the secondcontrol system is disposed in one or more of the primary modules of thesecond vertical stack with at least part of the second control systembeing disposed in the second switchgear module; wherein the secondplurality of primary modules are disposed immediately adjacent the firstplurality of primary modules such that the second vertical enclosureabuts the first vertical enclosure.

In a feature of this aspect, in each vertical stack, all of the primarymodules may have a common width.

In another feature of this aspect, in each vertical stack, theswitchgear module may be a transformer/switchgear module, wherein therespective transformer/switchgear module has a transformer disposed inthe interior thereof, and wherein the respective transformer isconnected to the respective switchgear.

In another feature of this aspect, a lowermost primary module, of eachvertical stack of primary modules, is mounted on, and attached to, abase frame or foundation. In further features, the base frame orfoundation includes a plurality of modular base structures, wherein thelowermost primary module, of each vertical stack of primary modules, ismounted on, and attached to, a respective modular base structure; thelowermost primary module, of each vertical stack of primary modules, isattached, via its primary corners, to the base frame or foundation; theprimary corners, of each of the lowermost primary modules, include fourbottom corners, wherein each of the bottom corners of each of thelowermost primary modules utilizes a standardized connection structure,and wherein the base frame or foundation includes correspondingstructures that couple to, and hold in place, the various bottom cornersto hold the lowermost primary modules in place on the base frame orfoundation; and/or the standardized connection structures may be cornercastings from an intermodal shipping container, and the correspondingstructures of the base frame or foundation may be twist lock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, in each vertical stack, each gen-setmodule may further include a dedicated fuel tank disposed in theinterior thereof.

In another feature of this aspect, the multi-stack modular powergeneration facility may further include one or more secondary modules,wherein each secondary module is disposed at an end of, but on the samelevel as, a respective primary module of the vertical stack of primarymodules. In further features, each secondary module may have a widthequal to the common width of the primary modules; the one or moresecondary modules may include a fuel tank module, wherein each fuel tankmodule is disposed at the end of a respective gen-set module, andwherein each fuel tank module houses a fuel tank, in an interiorthereof, that provides fuel to the engine-generator in the respectivegen-set module; each fuel tank module may include sound baffles,disposed in the interior thereof, to muffle sounds of combustion andflow of air in or out of the respective gen-set module; and/or the oneor more secondary modules may include a sound baffle module, whereineach sound baffle module is disposed at the end of a respective gen-setmodule, and wherein each sound baffle module houses sound baffles, in aninterior thereof, to muffle sounds of combustion and flow of air in orout of the respective gen-set module.

In another feature of this aspect, the multi-stack modular powergeneration facility may further include a staircase module having eightprimary corners, wherein the staircase module is disposed alongside, andattached via the respective primary corners to, at least one primarymodule in the first vertical stack of primary modules. In furtherfeatures, all of the primary modules may have a common height, and eachstaircase module has a height, as measured from a top of a top primarycorner to a bottom of a bottom primary corner directly beneath, equal tothe common height of the primary modules; and/or the staircase module isone of a plurality of staircase modules positioned in a vertical stackof staircase modules, wherein each staircase module is attached to aprimary module beside it via side attachment fittings that are eachconnected to one corner on the staircase module and a correspondingcorner on the primary module beside the staircase module.

In another feature of this aspect, in each vertical stack, all of theprimary modules may have a common length.

In another feature of this aspect, in each vertical stack, each primarymodule may be adapted from an intermodal shipping container having fourposts, a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottom side rails, a frontsill, a rear sill, a top front rail, and a top rear rail, all of whichare connected together by shipping container corner castings, whereinthe shipping container corner castings form the eight primary corners.In further features, in each vertical stack, each primary module isattached to a body above or below it via the corner castings andcorresponding twist lock fasteners; the primary modules in the firstvertical stack are attached to the primary modules in the secondvertical stack via side attachment fittings that are each connected toone corner casting on a first primary module and a corresponding cornercasting on a second primary module; and/or portions of at least two ofthe walls of each primary module may be corrugated shipping containerwalls.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module may include atleast one walk-through opening accessing the interior thereof, whereinthe at least one walk-through opening of each primary module in thefirst vertical stack is aligned with the at least one walk-throughopening of the primary module immediately adjacent thereto in the secondvertical stack, thereby providing access from the interior of eachprimary module in the first vertical stack to the interior of theimmediately adjacent primary module in the second vertical stack.

In another feature of this aspect, each primary module in the firstvertical stack is attached via the respective primary corners to theprimary module immediately adjacent thereto in the second verticalstack.

In another feature of this aspect, the switchgear in the firstswitchgear module is operatively connected to the switchgear in thesecond switchgear module. In further features, the first and secondswitchgear modules are disposed side-by-side and are attached to oneanother; and/or an exterior wall of the first switchgear module ispenetrated by a cable slot through which interconnect cables may passfor connection to the second switchgear module.

In another feature of this aspect, the multi-stack modular powergeneration facility may further include: a third plurality of primarymodules, wherein the third plurality of primary modules are positionedin a third vertical stack of modules and may be attached together toform a substantially modular third vertical enclosure for the generationof electricity, wherein each primary module includes eight primarycorners and an interior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall,a floor, a side wall, and an end wall, wherein the primary modulesinclude one or more gen-set modules, each having an engine-generatordisposed in the interior thereof, and wherein the primary modulesinclude a third switchgear module having switchgear disposed in theinterior thereof, wherein the third switchgear is ganged to at least oneof the one or more gen-set modules in the third vertical stack ofprimary modules; and a third control system in communication with eachof the gen-set modules in the third vertical stack of primary modules tocoordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as aunit and to control the loading of each of the generators in response toa power load demand, wherein the third control system is disposed in oneor more of the primary modules of the third vertical stack with at leastpart of the third control system being disposed in the third switchgearmodule; wherein the third plurality of primary modules are disposedimmediately adjacent the second plurality of primary modules such thatthe third vertical enclosure abuts the second vertical enclosure.

In another feature of this aspect, each of one or more of the first andsecond pluralities of primary modules may include a respectivesuperstructure, extending outwardly from the end wall, that supports oneor more operational component. In further features, at least one of theone or more gen-set modules of each of the first and second pluralitiesof primary modules may include the superstructure; a respective fluidtank may be disposed on each of at least one superstructure, external tothe interior space of the primary module; each respective fluid tank maybe a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; each respective fluid tank may bea fuel tank; each of the first and second switchgear modules may includethe superstructure; cables routed to/from an adjacent primary module maybe supported on each superstructure; each superstructure may include ahorizontal ladder structure, wherein the respective horizontal ladderstructures of horizontally adjacent primary modules are aligned witheach other, and wherein cables are routed to/from the adjacent primarymodules via the aligned horizontal ladder structures; and/or eachsuperstructure may include a vertical ladder structure, wherein therespective vertical ladder structures of vertically adjacent primarymodules are aligned with each other, and wherein cables are routedto/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned vertical ladderstructures.

Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is amethod of erecting a modular power generation facility, including:producing a plurality of primary modules, wherein each primary moduleincluding a housing that is adapted from an intermodal shippingcontainer having four posts, a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottomside rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a top front rail, and a top rearrail, all of which are connected together at the eight primary cornersby shipping container corner castings, wherein each primary moduleincludes an interior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall, aside wall, wherein the primary modules include one or more gen-setmodules, each having an engine-generator operatively installed in theinterior thereof, and wherein the primary modules include a switchgearmodule having switchgear operatively installed in the interior thereof;shipping the plurality of primary modules, with the respectiveengine-generator or switchgear operatively installed therein, to aninstallation location; at the installation location, positioning theprimary modules, with the respective engine-generator or switchgearoperatively installed therein, in a vertical stack; attaching theprimary modules, with the respective engine-generator or switchgearoperatively installed therein, to one another in the vertical stack,thereby forming a substantially modular enclosure; interconnecting theengine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules with the switchgearof the switchgear module; and operating the engine-generators and theswitchgear to provide electricity to a transformer connected to theswitchgear in response to a power load demand.

In a feature of this aspect, the operating step includes using a controlsystem, arranged in communication with each of the gen-set modules, tocoordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as aunit and to control the loading of each of the generators in response toa power load demand.

In another feature of this aspect, the shipping step is carried out byhandling and transporting the shipping container-based primary modules,each with a respective engine-generator or switchgear operativelyinstalled therein, using the corner castings of the respective shippingcontainer housings. In a further feature, at least some of theswitchgear modules are transformer/switchgear modules, eachtransformer/switchgear module has a transformer operatively installed inthe interior thereof and operatively connected to the respectiveswitchgear, the shipping step is carried out for eachtransformer/switchgear module with the respective transformeroperatively installed therein, and the operating step is carried out foreach transformer/switchgear module using the transformer installedtherein.

In another feature of this aspect, the positioning step includesmaneuvering the shipping container-based primary modules, each with arespective engine-generator or switchgear operatively installed therein,using the corner castings of the respective shipping container housings.

In another feature of this aspect, the positioning step includesattaching the primary modules to a base frame or foundation via twistlock fasteners mounted to the base frame or foundation, thereby holdingthe modules in place thereon.

In another feature of this aspect, the operating step is carried out fora period of time, the method may further include a subsequent step ofterminating the operating step, the method may further include attachingan additional primary module, which is an additional gen-set module, tothe row of existing primary modules, the method may further includeinterconnecting the engine-generator of the additional gen-set module tothe switchgear of the switchgear module, and the method may furtherinclude reinitiating the operating step. In a further feature, themethod may further include a step, prior to the step of attaching anadditional primary module and after the terminating step, of removingone of the one or more gen-set modules, and the step of attaching anadditional gen-set module includes attaching the additional module as areplacement for the removed module.

In another feature of this aspect, the method may further include a stepof producing one or more staircase module, each having eight primarycorners, wherein each primary corner of each staircase module is ashipping container corner casting, and the method may further includeattaching one or more staircase modules, in a vertical stack, to thevertical stack of primary modules to provide access to upper primarymodules. In further features, the step of attaching the vertical stackof staircase modules to the vertical stack of primary modules is carriedout via respective corner castings on the staircase modules and theprimary modules; the step of attaching the vertical stack of staircasemodules to the vertical stack of primary modules is carried out via sideattachment fittings coupled between the respective corner castings onthe staircase modules and the primary modules; the method may furtherinclude a step of shipping the one or more staircase modules to theinstallation location, wherein the shipping step is carried out byhandling and transporting the staircase modules using the cornercastings of the one or more staircase modules; the method may furtherinclude a step, prior to the step of attaching the vertical stack ofstaircase modules to the vertical stack of primary modules, ofmaneuvering the staircase modules into place next to the primarymodules, wherein the maneuvering step is carried out using the cornercastings of the respective staircase modules; and/or the method mayfurther include a step, prior to the step of attaching the verticalstack of staircase modules to the vertical stack of primary modules, ofattaching a lowermost of the staircase modules to a base frame orfoundation via twist lock fasteners mounted to the base frame orfoundation, thereby holding the lowermost staircase module in placethereon.

In another feature of this aspect, the method may further include stepsof producing a secondary module that includes a housing adapted from anintermodal shipping container having four posts, a pair of top siderails, a pair of bottom side rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a topfront rail, and a top rear rail, all of which are connected together atthe eight primary corners by shipping container corner castings,maneuvering the secondary module into place at an end of a first of theat least one primary modules, and attaching the secondary module to theend of the first primary module using the corner castings of therespective shipping container housings. In further features, the firstprimary module is a gen-set module, the secondary module is a fuel tankmodule housing a fuel tank, and the method may further includeoperatively connecting the fuel tank to the engine-generator of thegen-set module in the first primary module such that fuel is providedfrom the fuel tank to the engine-generator; and/or the first primarymodule is a gen-set module, the secondary module includes a sound bafflemodule housing sound baffles, and the method may further includemuffling sounds of combustion or flow of air in or out of the firstprimary module.

In another feature of this aspect, the one or more gen-set modules are afirst set of gen-set modules, the switchgear module is a firstswitchgear module, the vertical stack of primary modules is a firstvertical stack of primary modules, the step of producing a plurality ofprimary modules also includes producing at least a second set of thegen-set modules and at least a second switchgear module, the method mayfurther include a step of positioning the second set of primary modulesin a second vertical stack, the method may further include attaching thesecond set of primary modules, with the respective engine-generator orswitchgear operatively installed therein, to one another in the secondvertical stack, thereby forming a substantially modular enclosure, themethod may further include interconnecting the engine-generators of thesecond set of gen-set modules with the switchgear of the secondswitchgear module, and the operating step includes operating the firstand second sets of engine-generators and the first and second switchgearto provide electricity to transformers connected to the respectiveswitchgear in response to a power load demand. In further features, allof the primary modules may have a common height; all of the primarymodules may have a common length; and/or all of the primary modules mayhave a common width.

In another feature of this aspect, the step of attaching the primarymodules to one another in the vertical stack includes attaching eachprimary module to the primary module above it or below it via the cornercastings and corresponding twist lock fasteners.

In another feature of this aspect, the method may further include a stepof installing a respective superstructure on each of one or more of theplurality of primary modules, the superstructure extending outwardlyfrom the end wall, and a step of supporting one or more operationalcomponent on the superstructure. In further features, at least one ofthe one or more gen-set modules may include the superstructure; the stepof a supporting one more operational component on the superstructureincludes supporting a respective fluid tank on each superstructure,external to the interior space of the respective primary module; eachrespective fluid tank may be a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank; eachrespective fluid tank may be a fuel tank; the switchgear module mayinclude the superstructure; the step of a supporting one moreoperational component on the superstructure includes supporting cablesthat are routed to/from an adjacent primary module; each superstructuremay include a horizontal ladder structure, wherein the respectivehorizontal ladder structures of horizontally adjacent primary modulesare aligned with each other, and wherein cables are routed to/from theadjacent primary modules via the aligned horizontal ladder structures;and/or each superstructure may include a vertical ladder structure,wherein the respective vertical ladder structures of vertically adjacentprimary modules are aligned with each other, and wherein cables arerouted to/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned verticalladder structures.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples, whileindicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended forpurposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope ofthe invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features, embodiments, and advantages of the present inventionwill become apparent from the following detailed description withreference to the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a collection of electric power generationmodules for use as building blocks in modular power generationfacilities, all in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments ofthe present invention;

FIG. 2A is an isometric view of one of the gen-set modules of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2B is a top cross-sectional view of the gen-set module of FIG. 2A,taken along line 2B-2B of FIG. 2D;

FIG. 2C is a right side view of the gen-set module of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2D is a left side view of the gen-set module of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2E is a rear view of the gen-set module of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2F is a front view of the gen-set module of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3A is an isometric view of the transformer/switchgear module andthe workroom module of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3B is a top cross-sectional view of the transformer/switchgearmodule and the workroom module of FIG. 3A, taken along line 3B-3B ofFIG. 3D;

FIG. 3C is a right side view of the transformer/switchgear module andthe workroom module of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3D is a left side view of the transformer/switchgear module and theworkroom module of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3E is a rear view of the transformer/switchgear module and theworkroom module of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3F is a front view of the transformer/switchgear module and theworkroom module of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is an isometric view of a switchgear/workroom module of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a top cross-sectional view of a switchgear/workroom module ofFIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a right side view of the switchgear/workroom module of FIG.4A;

FIG. 4D is a left side view of the switchgear/workroom module of FIG.4A;

FIG. 4E is a rear view of the switchgear/workroom module of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4F is a front view of the switchgear/workroom module of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5A is an isometric view of the staircase module of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5B is a top view of the staircase module of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is a left side view of the staircase module of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5D is a rear view of the staircase module of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5E is a front view of the staircase module of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is an isometric view of the sound baffle module of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6B is a top cross-sectional view of the sound baffle module of FIG.1, taken along line 6B-6B of FIG. 6C;

FIG. 6C is a left side view of the sound baffle module of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6D is a rear view of the sound baffle module of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6E is a front view of the sound baffle module of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is an isometric view of the external fuel tank module of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7B is a top cross-sectional view of the external fuel tank moduleof FIG. 7A, taken along line 7B-7B of FIG. 7C;

FIG. 7C is a left side view of the external fuel tank module of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7D is a rear view of the external fuel tank module of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7E is a front view of the external fuel tank module of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is an isometric view of a first exemplary modular powergeneration facility constructed using some of the building block modulesof FIG. 1, all according to one or more preferred embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 8B is a rear view of the exemplary modular power generationfacility of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a top cross-sectional view of the exemplary modular powergeneration facility of FIG. 8B, taken along line 8C-8C;

FIGS. 8D and 8E are isometric views of the exemplary modular powergeneration facility of FIG. 8A, shown with the modules positioned on abase frame or foundation;

FIG. 9A is an isometric view of a second exemplary modular powergeneration facility constructed using some of the building block modulesof FIG. 1, all according to one or more preferred embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 9B is a rear view of the exemplary modular power generationfacility of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9C is a top cross-sectional view of the exemplary modular powergeneration facility of FIG. 9B, taken along line 9C-9C;

FIG. 10A is an isometric view of a third exemplary modular powergeneration facility constructed using some of the building block modulesof FIG. 1, all according to one or more preferred embodiments of thepresent invention;

FIG. 10B is a rear view of the exemplary modular power generationfacility of FIG. 10A;

FIG. 10C is a top cross-sectional view of the exemplary modular powergeneration facility of FIG. 10B, taken along line 10C-10C;

FIG. 11 is a top cross-sectional view of a fourth exemplary modularpower generation facility constructed using some of the building blockmodules of FIG. 1, all according to one or more preferred embodiments ofthe present invention;

FIG. 12A is an isometric view of another one of the gen-set modules ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 12B is a top cross-sectional view of the gen-set module of FIG.12A, taken along line 12B-12B of FIG. 12D;

FIG. 12C is a right side view of the gen-set module of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12D is a left side view of the gen-set module of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12E is rear view of the gen-set module of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 12F is a front view of the gen-set module of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 13A is an isometric view of another one of the gen-set modules ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 13B is a top cross-sectional view of the gen-set module of FIG.13A, taken along line 13B-13B of FIG. 13D;

FIG. 13C is a right side view of the gen-set module of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 13D is a left side view of the gen-set module of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 13E is rear view of the gen-set module of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 13F is a front view of the gen-set module of FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14A is an isometric view of still another one of the gen-setmodules of FIG. 1;

FIG. 14B is a top cross-sectional view of the gen-set module of FIG.14A;

FIG. 14C is a right side view of the gen-set module of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 14D is a left side view of the gen-set module of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 14E is a rear view of the gen-set module of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 14F is a front view of the gen-set module of FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15A is an isometric view of another switchgear/workroom module ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 15B is a top cross-sectional view of the switchgear/workroom moduleof FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15C is a right side view of the switchgear/workroom module of FIG.15A;

FIG. 15D is a left side view of the switchgear/workroom module of FIG.15A;

FIG. 15E is a rear view of the switchgear/workroom module of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15F is a front view of the switchgear/workroom module of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 16 is a rear view of a fifth exemplary modular power generationfacility constructed using the building block modules of FIG. 1, allaccording to one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 17A is an isometric view of a sixth exemplary modular powergeneration facility constructed using the building block modules of FIG.1;

FIG. 17B is a front view of the exemplary modular power generationfacility of FIG. 17A;

FIG. 18A is an isometric view of a seventh exemplary modular powergeneration facility constructed using the building block modules of FIG.1; and

FIG. 18B is a front view of the exemplary modular power generationfacility of FIG. 18A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one havingordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the presentinvention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodimentdiscussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be partof a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention.Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrativepurposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the presentinvention. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate onlyone or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention andmay further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosedfeatures. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations,modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosedby the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of thepresent invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detailin relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that thisdisclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, andis made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enablingdisclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein ofone or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, tolimit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention,which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof.It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded thepresent invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitationfound herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps ofvarious processes or methods that are described herein are illustrativeand not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, althoughsteps of various processes or methods may be shown and described asbeing in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processesor methods are not limited to being carried out in any particularsequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps insuch processes or methods generally may be carried out in variousdifferent sequences and orders while still falling within the scope ofthe present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope ofpatent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by theappended claims rather than the description set forth herein.

Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refersto that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to meanbased on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that themeaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisanbased on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from anyparticular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that themeaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan shouldprevail.

Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶6, no claim element isintended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unlessthe explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in suchclaim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to applyin the interpretation of such claim element.

Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an”each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a pluralityunless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “apicnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having atleast one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” Incontrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes“a picnic basket having only one apple.”

When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one ofthe items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus,reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “apicnic basket having cheese without crackers,” “a picnic basket havingcrackers without cheese,” and “a picnic basket having both cheese andcrackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and”denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnicbasket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket havingcheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well asdescribes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basketfurther has cheese.”

One aspect of the present invention is the use of purpose-builtintermodal shipping containers that meet the International Organizationfor Standardization (“ISO”) specifications for standard container sizeand construction (often referred to as ISO shipping containers, andgeneral referred to herein as “ISO intermodal shipping containers” orsimply “intermodal shipping containers”). Such containers aremanufactured in a limited number of sizes. Common container lengthsinclude ten feet (approximately 9-feet-9.625-inches external) and twentyfeet (approximately 19-feet-10.5-inches external) lengths. The standardwidth for such ISO intermodal shipping containers are eight feet, andthe common height is eight-feet-six-inches (standard height containers)or nine-feet-six-inches (“high-cube” containers). A typical standardcontainer has five fixed sides (top, bottom, sides, and one end) and aset of swinging doors with hinges and vertical locking bars, with thelocking bars extending from top to bottom of the doors and adapted tolatch to the rear sill and the top rear rail. However, the top, bottom,side, and end walls can be customized for specific needs. In anon-limiting example, locking bars may be removed or omitted entirelyfrom the rear doors, either as part of manufacturing or after shipping.The common feature for all ISO intermodal shipping containers is thatthere is a heavy-duty casting at each of the eight corners thatterminate the eight beams (two bottom side rails, two top side rails, afront top rail, a back top rail, a front sill, and a rear sill) and thefour columns (two front posts and two rear posts) of the container. Muchof the structural integrity of an ISO container is provided by the eighttop and bottom beams and the four vertical columns terminating into theeight corner castings, with additional structural integrity beingprovided by the use of corrugated walls. The corner castings also allowthe containers to be fastened using a device known as a twist lockfastener; such twist lock fasteners can be manual or automatic (i.e.,spring-loaded or the like). The twist lock fastener allows a containerto be secured to a truck flatbed (for shipment to a site), to a baseframe or foundation once on-site, and to abutting containers above andbelow for vertical stacking.

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent likecomponents throughout the several views, one or more preferredembodiments of the present invention are next described. The followingdescription of one or more preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplaryin nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, itsapplication, or uses. The use of “right,” “left,” “front,” and “rear” indescribing the various views is somewhat arbitrary, but is intended tomatch terminology used to describe an ISO intermodal shipping containerwhen the container is on a tractor-trailer combination, wherein thefront wall is the wall that is typically arranged closest to the tractorcab and the rear wall is the wall that contains the container doors.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a collection of electric power generationmodules for use as building blocks in modular power generationfacilities, all in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments ofthe present invention. As illustrated therein, modules preferablyinclude different types of gen-set modules 101,701,801,901,transformer/switchgear modules 102, workroom modules 103,switchgear/workroom modules 112,122, staircase modules 104, sound bafflemodules 120, and external fuel tank modules 130. Gen-set modules101,701,801,901, transformer/switchgear modules 102, workroom modules103, and switchgear/workroom modules 112,122 are sometimes referred toherein as “primary modules;” sound baffle modules 120 and external fueltank modules 130 are sometimes referred to herein as “secondarymodules.” The modules may be arranged in various ways to form modularpower generation facilities, some of which are described and illustratedherein. In a typical facility, each transformer/switchgear module 102abuts the side of a gen-set module 101,701,801, each workroom module 103abuts the opposite side of a transformer/switchgear module 102, eachsound baffle module 120 abuts one end of a gen-set module 101,701,801,each external fuel tank module 130 abuts the opposite end of the gen-setmodule 101,701,801, and each staircase module 104 abuts the side of aworkroom module 103 or the side of a gen-set module 101,701,801. Inanother typical facility, each switchgear/workroom module 112 abuts theside of a gen-set module 101,701,801, each sound baffle module 120 abutsone end of a gen-set module 101,701,801, each external fuel tank module130 abuts the opposite end of the gen-set module 101,701,801, and eachstaircase module 104 abuts the side of a workroom module 103 or the sideof a gen-set module 101,701,801. However, it will be appreciated thatthe modules may be used as building blocks in a wide variety offacilities, wherein some facilities may include all of the illustratedmodules, while others may only include a subset of the modules, andwherein the number of modules of each type may vary considerably fromone facility to another. Each of these will be described in greaterdetail hereinbelow.

FIGS. 2A-2F are an isometric view, a top cross-sectional view, a rightside view, a left side view, a rear view, and a front view,respectively, of one of the gen-set modules 101 of FIG. 1. The gen-setmodule 101 includes a generator 200 housed in a purpose-built ISOintermodal shipping container with limited modifications of options, allin the same space footprint as a conventional ISO intermodal shippingcontainer. In at least one contemplated commercial embodiment, theshipping container footprint is that of a “hi-cube” unit that is eightfeet wide, 20 feet long, and 9-foot-6-inches tall; however, otherconventional shipping container footprint sizes may additionally oralternatively be utilized.

The container includes a top left side rail 232, a bottom left side rail230, a top right side rail 233, a bottom right side rail 231, a top rearrail 234, a rear sill 235, a rear left post 236, a rear right post 237,a top front rail 245, a front sill 246, a front left post 247, and afront right post 248. A plurality of walls are supported by the rails,sills, and posts to form a housing; portions or the entirety of eachsuch wall preferably utilize conventional corrugated steel construction,like that of conventional intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the modules101 to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventional shippingcontainers. The modules 101 may thus be hauled by rail, tractor-trailer,ship, and any other conventional mode of shipping container transport.Side attachment fittings 243 are also provided to enable the module 101to be securely attached to another module placed in side-by-sideabutment therewith. Preferably, the side attachment fittings 243 areconnected to the conventional corner castings 241,242. In at least someembodiments, a corner casting 241,242 of one module 101 can be attachedto a corresponding corner casting 241,242 on the adjacent module via asingle side attachment fitting 243. In at least some of theseembodiments, the side attachment fittings 243 are provided on the fourfixtures 241,242 on one side of the module 101, and the side that isselected is the same for every module such that a proper set of sideattachment fittings is always available for side-to-side attachment ofadjacent modules.

One or more large ventilation opening in the rear doors or wall,preferably covered by louvers 211, allows ventilation air to circulatethrough the gen-set module 101, while one or more additional ventilationopening in the front wall, also preferably covered by louvers 214,allows cooling air to circulate to the generator 200 contained inside.The rear ventilation openings preferably occupy substantially all of thearea of the rear doors or panel, while the front ventilation openingspreferably occupy at least a quarter of the area of the front panel.User access to the interior is generally provided via doorways 204 and apassageway 220; a door 203 is shown in an open position in one of thedoorways 204. However, in at least some embodiments, a front panel 215,front louvers 214, and/or rear louvers 211 may be removed, and/or therear doors (if provided) may be opened, to provide additional access tothe contents of the gen-set module 101, allowing access for repair,upgrade or replacement of components.

As perhaps best shown in the top cross-sectional view of FIG. 2B, theinterior of the gen-set module 101 contains a generator 200, analternator 209, one or more batteries 216, a “hotstart” heating/startingsystem 217, a cooling radiator 207, a circuit breaker/switchgear panel208, a communications (comms) box 218, a fuel tank 250, and an exhaustpipe 205. In at least some contemplated commercial embodiments, thegenerator 200 is diesel-fired and satisfies the EPA Tier 4 Finalemissions standards. Equipment suitable for use includes a Tier 4 (625kW) engine available from Volvo and a corresponding alternator availablefrom Marathon. In at least some embodiments, a selective catalystreduction (SCR) system 221 and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) (urea) tankare provided in order to help meet Tier 4 emission level requirements.In some such embodiments, including the one illustrated in FIG. 2B, theSCR system 221 is housed within the container, while the DEF tank islocated outside the ISO container in order to facilitate ease ofconnection to main supply infrastructure and to provide greater internalmodule space for operation and maintenance access. In at least some suchembodiments, standard harnesses and plumbing as provided by the enginemanufacturer are utilized without modification. Also, it will beappreciated that in various embodiments, some of which are describedherein, a gen-set module may be provided with a generator that isgasoline fired, natural gas fired, propane fired, fuel oil fired, orfired by any other type of fuel. In various embodiments, the generatorscan be high-efficiency and rated for continuous use, or can be lowerefficiency rated for non-continuous use.

The filling of the tank 250 may be accomplished by supply hoses passedthrough a doorway 204 or via some other opening. In at least someembodiments, an access port 219 provides such opening in the front wallof the gen-set module 101,701,901 and preferably includes a cover thatseals the opening when not in use. In an alternate embodiment, fillingports may be mounted on an external surface of the gen-set module 101such as the surface where the louvers 211 are mounted. In anotheralternate embodiment, the tanks of a plurality of gen-set modules 101can be interconnected through a manifold system, and fluid levels can becentrally monitored using a set of tank-level sensors and replenishedmanually by an operator or automatically under the control of a centralmonitoring control system.

In at least some embodiments of the present invention, one or moreoverhead cable trays 225 are used to carry power output and controlsignal cables (not shown) within the module 101. Such interconnectcables are connected to the circuit breaker/switchgear panel 208 andcommunications (comms) box 218 in a given gen-set module 101. In atleast some embodiments, the cables are provided as part of a pre-definedpower cable and control wire harnesses that are pre-manufactured,pre-installed, and factory verified prior to shipment. A cable slot 226is arranged in the respective side wall of the container at each end ofthe cable tray 225 to provide entry and exit of the cables to/from themodule 101. As described further elsewhere herein, the cables may bepassed through the cable trays of adjacent modules, particularlyincluding other gen-set modules 101, until the cables can be terminatedat the equipment located in the transformer/switchgear module 102 andworkroom module 103 located on the same level as the correspondinggen-set modules 101. Additionally or alternatively, vertical cablechases (not shown) may be provided to enable interconnect between agen-set module 101 and the module above and/or below it. Also, in analternate embodiments (not shown), interconnect cables that are integralto each gen-set module 101 and arranged such that they are terminated inmodular connections that can be made by plugs mounted to the exteriorwalls of each of the gen-set modules 101.

The doorways 204 and cable slots 226 of each module are preferablysurrounded by a frame that may be coupled to a corresponding frame on anadjacent module to provide environmental protection for the cableconnections and the doorways. In at least some embodiments, one side ofthe module 101 utilizes an inner frame 228 and the other side of themodule 101 utilizes an outer frame 229 such that when the module 101 isplaced in side-to-side abutment with another module, the inner frame 228of one module fits within the outer frame 229 of the other module tosurround and protect the inter-module doorway and cable passages. Inother embodiments (not shown), the frames on opposing sides may beidentical but arranged to couple with each other in a manner providingsimilar protection.

FIGS. 3A-3F are an isometric view, a top cross-sectional view, a rightside view, a left side view, a rear view, and a front view of thetransformer/switchgear module 102 and the workroom module 103 of FIG. 1.Although shown coupled together, the transformer/switchgear module 102and workroom module 103 are separate modules that may be transportedseparately and in some cases used separately. However, in at least somecommercial embodiments it is anticipated that they would be usedtogether regularly, and they are presented that way herein.

The transformer/switchgear module 102 and the workroom module 103 areeach housed in a respective purpose-built ISO intermodal shippingcontainer with limited modifications of options, all in the same spacefootprint as a conventional ISO intermodal shipping container. In atleast one contemplated commercial embodiment, the shipping containerfootprint is that of a “hi-cube” unit that is eight feet wide, 20 feetlong, and 9-foot-6-inches tall; however, other conventional shippingcontainer footprint sizes may additionally or alternatively be utilized.In this regard, however, it is preferred that the height be selected tomatch that of the other module types, and, to a lesser degree, it ispreferred that the length be selected to match that of the other moduletypes, and particularly that of the gen-set modules 101.

The container includes a top left side rail 232, a bottom left side rail230, a top right side rail 233, a bottom right side rail 231, a top rearrail 234, a rear sill 235, a rear left post 236, a rear right post 237,a top front rail 245, a front sill 246, a front left post 247, and afront right post 248. A plurality of walls are supported by the rails,sills, and posts to form a housing; portions or the entirety of eachsuch wall preferably utilize conventional corrugated steel construction,like that of conventional intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the modules102,103 to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventionalshipping containers. The modules 102,103 may thus be hauled by rail,tractor-trailer, ship, and any other conventional mode of shippingcontainer transport. Side attachment fittings 243 are also provided toenable the modules 102,103 to be securely attached to one another and toother modules placed in side-by-side abutment therewith. Preferably, theside attachment fittings 243 are connected to the conventional cornercastings 241,242. In at least some embodiments, a corner casting 241,242of one module 102,103 can be attached to a corresponding corner casting241,242 on the adjacent module via a single side attachment fitting 243.In at least some of these embodiments, the side attachment fittings 243are provided on the four fixtures 241,242 on one side of each module102,103, and the side that is selected is the same for every module suchthat a proper set of side attachment fittings is always available forside-to-side attachment of adjacent modules.

One or more intake vent, preferably covered by louvers 314, ispreferably provided in one or both of the modules 102,103 and providesfresh air to the workroom module 103 and transformer/switchgear module102, and one or more ventilation fan and discharge vent 313 ispreferably provided in one or both of the modules 102,103. The vents maybe relatively small compared to the louvered openings in the gen-setmodule 101 because the air intake/exhaust and cooling needs of themodules 102,103 are much lower than those of the gen-set module 101.User access to the interior of the modules 102,103 is generally providedvia a primary access door 310, a gen-set access door 311, and anemergency egress door 312, each of which is illustrated in its openposition in FIGS. 3A-3F. In at least some embodiments, the rear of eachof the modules 102,103 may also include doors 316 that provide accessand allow the transformer and/or other electrical gear to be removed forupgrade or replacement. Notably, the doors 316 are shown as beingstandard ISO intermodal shipping container doors. While each module typeis purpose built, it is acknowledged that the doors 316 for thetransformer/switchgear module 102 and the workroom module 103 do notrequire any special fittings and standard shipping container doors arelikely the most cost-effective choice.

As perhaps best shown in the top cross-sectional view of FIG. 3B, thetransformer/switchgear module 102 primarily houses a transformer 320,input tie gear or switchgear 321, output switchgear 322, as well asother items needed for the interconnection of each of the gen-setsmodules 101 and needed to carry the power output to the end user. In acontemplated commercial embodiment, the transformer 320 is a 3750 kVAtransformer, the output switchgear 322 is a high voltage levelswitchgear and load interrupter such as the HVL/cc product manufacturedby Square D. The workroom module 103 is shown abutting thetransformer/switchgear module 102 along an interface 315, and may houseadditional control panels and the like, such as a house power panel 350,a system controller 351 and other gear. In most preferred embodiments,no partition exists along the interface 315 as the open space in theworkroom module 103 is generally useful in order to provide additionalclearance around the transformer 320.

The switchgear housed in the transformer/switchgear module 102 formspart of a control system that is arranged in communication with each ofthe gen-set modules 101. Other parts of such control system may likewisebe housed in the transformer/switchgear module 102, although in someembodiments, some elements of the control system may be housedelsewhere, particularly including the workroom module 103. Also,controls for the individual generators 200 are typically included ineach respective gen-set module 101. Typically, the control systemcoordinates the generators 200 as a unit and controls the loading ofeach of the generators 200 in response to a power load demand.

Although power generation facilities typically require the use oftransformers to provide a desired voltage level, it is anticipated thatin at least some modular power generation facilities, the transformersare provided separately or are already available on site. In many suchfacilities, however, it is still necessary to provide the necessarycontrols and switchgear to interconnect the modular gen-sets with thetransformers. In this regard, FIGS. 4A-4F are an isometric view, a topcross-sectional view, a right side view, a left side view, a rear view,and a front view of a switchgear/workroom module 112 of FIG. 1. Theswitchgear/workroom module 112 includes switchgear, controls, and workspace housed in a purpose-built ISO intermodal shipping container withlimited modifications of options, all in the same space footprint as aconventional ISO intermodal shipping container. In at least onecontemplated commercial embodiment, the shipping container footprint isthat of a “hi-cube” unit that is eight feet wide, 20 feet long, and9-foot-6-inches tall; however, other conventional shipping containerfootprint sizes may additionally or alternatively be utilized. In thisregard, however, it is preferred that the height be selected to matchthat of the other module types, and, to a lesser degree, it is preferredthat the length be selected to match that of the other module types, andparticularly that of the gen-set modules 101.

The container includes a top left side rail 232, a bottom left side rail230, a top right side rail 233, a bottom right side rail 231, a top rearrail 234, a rear sill 235, a rear left post 236, a rear right post 237,a top front rail 245, a front sill 246, a front left post 247, and afront right post 248. A plurality of walls are supported by the rails,sills, and posts to form a housing; portions or the entirety of eachsuch wall preferably utilize conventional corrugated steel construction,like that of conventional intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the module 112to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventional shippingcontainers. The module 112 may thus be hauled by rail, tractor-trailer,ship, and any other conventional mode of shipping container transport.Side attachment fittings 243 are also provided to enable the modules102,103 to be securely attached to one another and to other modulesplaced in side-by-side abutment therewith. Preferably, the sideattachment fittings 243 are connected to the conventional cornercastings 241,242. In at least some embodiments, a corner casting 241,242of one module 102,103 can be attached to a corresponding corner casting241,242 on the adjacent module via a single side attachment fitting 243.In at least some of these embodiments, the side attachment fittings 243are provided on the four fixtures 241,242 on one side of the module 112,and the side that is selected is the same for every module such that aproper set of side attachment fittings is always available forside-to-side attachment of adjacent modules.

One or more intake vents (not shown), preferably covered by louvers, maybe provided in the module 112 to provide fresh air to the interior ofthe module 112, and one or more ventilation fans and discharge vents(not shown) may also be provided. The vents may be relatively smallcompared to the louvered openings in the gen-set module 101 because theair intake/exhaust and cooling needs of the module 112 are much lowerthan those of the gen-set module 101. User access to the interior of themodule 112 is generally provided via a primary access door 310, agen-set access door 311, and an emergency egress door 312, each of whichis illustrated in its open position in FIGS. 4A-4F. In at least someembodiments, the rear of the module 112 may also include doors 316 thatprovide access and allow the various electrical gear inside to beremoved for upgrade or replacement. Notably, the doors 316 are shown asbeing standard ISO intermodal shipping container doors. While eachmodule type is purpose built, it is acknowledged that the doors 316 forthe switchgear/workroom module 112 do not require any special fittingsand standard shipping container doors are likely the most cost-effectivechoice.

As perhaps best shown in the top cross-sectional view of FIG. 4B, theswitchgear/workroom module 112 primarily houses input tie gear orswitchgear 321, a house power panel 350, a system controller 351, andother items needed for the interconnection of each of the gen-setsmodules 101, the delivery of the power output to a transformer or enduser, and at least some of the controls for these functions.

The switchgear 321 housed in the switchgear/workroom module 112 formspart of a control system that is arranged in communication with each ofthe gen-set modules 101. Other parts of such control system may likewisebe housed in the switchgear/workroom module 112, although in someembodiments, some elements of the control system may be housedelsewhere, and controls for the individual generators 200 are typicallyincluded in each respective gen-set module 101. Typically, the controlsystem coordinates the generators 200 as a unit and controls the loadingof each of the generators 200 in response to a power load demand.

In some embodiments, the switchgear may include a microprocessorcontroller to operate multiple paralleling of the generators 200, adrawout circuit breaker, and closeable doors. Generally, the controlleris in electrical communication with the gen-set modules 101 and controlsthe output and load scheme of each of the generators 200. For example,the controller may control each generator's power output in response toeither a predetermined or failure event power load demand. Thecontroller may include an inherently built-in safety feature, wherein ifone generator 200 fails, or is otherwise bypassed, the remaininggenerators 200 will continue to operate. For example purposes only, a3.0 MW (five 600 kW generators arranged in parallel) that loses onegenerator 200 will still have the ability to produce 2.4 MW with thefour remaining generators 200.

In particular embodiments, the controller provides control andprotection for a prime mover by allowing full control of a starter andfuel flow throughout various applications. Further, in the event thatone of the engine-generators 200 is set up for control over, or via, asuitable protocol, the microprocessor controller may be able to not onlysend commands to the generators 200 for starting, stopping and throttlecontrol, but is also able to receive data back from the generators 200and display the information on a display for the user. Programmableinputs in a generator control compartment also provide protection fromgenerator failures by allowing the user to monitor an analog and/ordigital signal generated by the controller. The control compartment mayalso be used to optimize the generator output and controlling theparalleling of the generators 200 with the utility grid.

In particular embodiments, the switchgear and controller are used toplace a modular power generation facility, created from the gen-setmodule 101 and other modules as described elsewhere herein, in parallelwith a utility grid by synchronizing a generator signal to the bus andsynchronizing a mains signal to the bus. The paralleling operation mayprovide protection, metering, control and switching elements in a mastercontrol compartment, the generator control compartment and/or a utilitycontrol compartment to manage the load scheme(s) of the block ofgenerators 200 for parallel integration with the utility grid. Forexample, the controller and parallel switchgear may match the frequency,voltage, phase angle, and phase rotation of each generator 200 in themodular power generation facility.

The controller preferably meets or exceeds the IEEE 1547 Specificationinterconnect requirements. In at least some embodiments, themicroprocessor controller initiates a generator start command from autility, or central control command, to start and synchronize thegenerators 200 together. Further, the controller may synchronize theblock of generators 200 to the utility grid. In some embodiments thecontroller can have all generators up to full power in less than 60seconds, and preferably in ten to thirty seconds, from the time thecommand is initiated. Such a capability is particularly helpful inutility grids under stress to quickly and efficiently respond to a powerfailure event or power demand change. Further, a modular powergeneration facility may create power with the generators 200 and feedthe power directly into the utility grid.

In particular embodiments, the user may adjust the acceptable phasewindow and voltage delta necessary for control of a particularapplication. For illustrative purposes only, the controller mayincorporate phase matching or slip frequency techniques during thesynchronization of the generator signal and/or the mains signal.Further, the controller may incorporate dead bus paralleling and fullbreaker/contactor control. In some embodiments, the drawout breaker mayinclude a generator breaker used to tie the generator bus to the utilitybus. The drawout breaker may also include a utility breaker thatconnects the modular power generation facility to the utility grid. Amain breaker may be used to tie the generator bus to the utility bus. Insome embodiments, the drawout breaker may further include a distributionbreaker to directly feed loads and transfer switches for paralleloperation with the utility grid.

The microprocessor controller provides loading of the generators 200 andprecise output control, for example kw/var output control, to provideoptimal control over the modular power generation facility based onpreset values. For instance, the controller may determine individualgenerator power factor control. Further, the loading and output controlmay be fully programmable to allow remote access. In this particularembodiment, a remote access terminal can automatically curtail lessimportant building loads in the event of a generator's failure duringthe loss of utility power. For example, if the failure rate of theindividual generators 200 is about 2%, then the reliability of themodular power generation facility to important loads is about 99.96%,without the cost of adding redundant generators.

Although not illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3F or FIGS. 4A-4F, one or moreoverhead cable trays may be used to carry power output, control signalcables, and/or the like (not shown) within the module 102,103,112,including, for example, the interconnect cables from the circuitbreaker/switchgear panel 208 and communications (comms) box 218 in thegen-set modules 101 as well as the power output cables from the gen-setmodules 101. In at least some embodiments, the cables are provided aspart of a pre-defined power cable and control wire harnesses that arepre-manufactured, pre-installed, and factory verified prior to shipment.A cable slot 226 is preferably arranged in the side wall of thetransformer/switchgear module 102 or switchgear/workroom module 112 toprovide entry and exit of the cables to/from the module 102,112. Asdescribed further elsewhere herein, the cables may be passed through thecable trays of adjacent modules, particularly including the gen-setmodules 101 on the same level as the transformer/switchgear module 102or switchgear/workroom module 112, until the cables can be terminated atthe equipment located in the transformer/switchgear module 102, workroommodule 103, or switchgear/workroom module 112. Additionally, verticalcable chases 324 may be provided to enable interconnect between atransformer/switchgear module 102 or switchgear/workroom module 112 andthe module above and/or below it. Also, in alternate embodiments (notshown), interconnect cables that are integral to eachtransformer/switchgear module 102 or switchgear/workroom module 112 canbe arranged such that they are terminated in modular connections thatcan be made by plugs mounted to the exterior walls of thetransformer/switchgear module 102 or switchgear/workroom module 112.

The gen-set access door 311 and cable slots 226 of thetransformer/switchgear module 102 or switchgear/workroom module 112 arepreferably surrounded by a frame that may be coupled to a correspondingframe on an adjacent module to provide environmental protection for thecable connections and the doorways. In the illustrated embodiments, theframe is an outer frame 229 like that of the gen-set modules 101 suchthat when the module 102,112 is placed in side-to-side abutment withanother module, the inner frame 228 of the other module fits within theouter frame 229 of the transformer/switchgear module 102 orswitchgear/workroom module 112 to surround and protect the inter-moduledoorway and cable passages. In other embodiments (not shown), the frameson opposing sides may be identical but arranged to couple with eachother in a manner providing similar protection.

FIGS. 5A-5E are an isometric view, a top view, a left side view, a rearview, and a front view of the staircase module 104 of FIG. 1. Thestaircase module 104 is utilized to provide access to upper levels of apower generation facility as further described elsewhere herein.Although there are no wall panels shown in FIGS. 5A-5E, the staircasemodule 104 is constructed according to the same footprint as other ISOintermodal shipping containers. In at least one contemplated commercialembodiment, the shipping container footprint is that of a “hi-cube” unitthat is eight feet wide, 20 feet long, and 9-foot-6-inches tall;however, other conventional shipping container footprint sizes mayadditionally or alternatively be utilized. In this regard, however, itis preferred that the height be selected to match that of the othermodule types, and, to a lesser degree, it is preferred that the lengthbe selected to match that of the other module types, and particularlythat of the gen-set modules 101. In this regard, the relevant height ofthe staircase module 104 is understood to be defined by the distancefrom the top of one of the upper corner castings 241 to the bottom ofthe bottom corner casting 242 directly therebeneath.

The staircase module 104 includes eight rails or beams and four postssimilar to standard ISO intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the modules104 to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventional shippingcontainers. The modules 104 may thus be hauled by rail, tractor-trailer,ship, and any other conventional mode of shipping container transport.Side attachment fittings 243 are also provided to enable the module 104to be securely attached to another module placed in side-by-sideabutment therewith. Preferably, the side attachment fittings 243 areconnected to the conventional corner castings 241,242. In at least someembodiments, a corner casting 241,242 of one module 104 can be attachedto a corresponding corner casting 241,242 on the adjacent module via asingle side attachment fitting 243. In at least some of theseembodiments, the side attachment fittings 243 are provided on the fourfixtures 241,242 on one side of the module 104, and the side that isselected is the same for every module such that a proper set of sideattachment fittings is always available for side-to-side attachment ofadjacent modules.

The staircase module 104 includes various platforms and flights ofstairs to enable a user to climb from one level to the next, as well assafety rails in appropriate locations along both the platforms and thestairs. The platforms and stairs are built off of, and supported by, thebeams and posts. In the illustrated embodiment, an additional cross beamis provided to provide additional support to platform sections and thetop of the primary flight of stairs, and a pair of additional posts areprovided to provide additional support for the other platform and thebottom of the primary flight of stairs, but other arrangements arelikewise possible. In at least some embodiments, the staircase module104 is specifically designed to abut a workroom module 103 and includesan opening in the safety rail such that the opening can be aligned withthe primary access door 310 of the module 103 such that personnel mayaccess the workroom module 103 thereby.

Notably, one or more stair sections and corresponding safety rails mayextend above the upper corner castings 241, as shown in theillustrations, or even below the lower corner castings 242. For shippingand other purposes, it is preferred that the primary structure includingbeams and posts, are fully assembled at a manufacturing or other remotelocation so that the staircase module 104 may be shipped and otherwisehandled like a conventional shipping container, and that a relativelylimited amount of assembly of superstructure components (like theuppermost safety rails 249 shown in FIGS. 5A-5E) is required at theinstallation site.

FIGS. 6A-6E are an isometric view, a top cross-sectional view, a sideview, a rear view, and a front view of the sound baffle module 120 ofFIG. 1. The sound baffle module 120, which may optionally be used with arespective gen-set module 101, to is housed in a purpose-built ISOintermodal shipping container with limited modifications of options, allin the same space footprint as a conventional ISO intermodal shippingcontainer. In at least one contemplated commercial embodiment, theshipping container footprint is that of a “hi-cube” unit that is eightfeet wide, 10 feet long, and 9-foot-6-inches tall; however, otherconventional shipping container footprint sizes may additionally oralternatively be utilized; however, other conventional shippingcontainer footprint sizes may additionally or alternatively be utilized.In this regard, however, it is preferred that the height be selected tomatch that of the other module types.

The container includes a top left side rail 532, a bottom left side rail530, a top right side rail 533, a bottom right side rail 531, a top rearrail 234, a rear sill 235, a rear left post 236, a rear right post 237,a top front rail 245, a front sill 246, a front left post 247, and afront right post 248. A plurality of walls are supported by the rails,sills, and posts to form a housing; portions or the entirety of eachsuch wall preferably utilize conventional corrugated steel construction,like that of conventional intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the modules120 to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventional shippingcontainers. The modules 120 may thus be hauled by rail, tractor-trailer,ship, and any other conventional mode of shipping container transport.Side attachment fittings 243 may be provided to enable the module 120 tobe securely attached to another module placed in side-by-side abutmenttherewith. End attachment fittings (not shown) may also be provided toenable the module 120 to be securely attached to the end of a gen-setmodule 101. Preferably, the side attachment fittings 243 and endattachment fittings are connected to the conventional corner castings241,242. In at least some embodiments, a corner casting 241,242 of onemodule 120 can be attached to a corresponding corner casting 241,242 onthe adjacent module via a single side attachment fitting 243.

As shown, for example, in the top cross-sectional view of FIG. 6B, thesound baffle module 120 includes internal sound baffles 501 in one ormore of the top, bottom, sides, and ends that are used to muffle thesound of moving air. Airflow into and/or out of the module 120 isfacilitated by large ventilation openings, preferably covered by louvers502,503. In at least some embodiments, the rear louvers 503 are inputlouvers and the front louvers 502 are output louvers. The ventilationopenings preferably occupy substantially all of the area of the frontand rear doors or panels. The sound baffle module 120 also attenuatesmechanical sounds that are generated inside of a gen-set module 101 andpass through the rear louvers 211 thereof. When used, the sound bafflemodule 120 is preferably placed at the rear end of a gen-set module 101such that the rear louvers 503 thereof are adjacent to the rear louvers211 of the gen-set module 101.

FIGS. 7A-7E are an isometric view, a top cross-sectional view, a leftside view, a right side cross-sectional view, and a rear view of theexternal fuel tank module 130 of FIG. 1. The external fuel tank module130 is housed in a purpose-built ISO intermodal shipping container withlimited modifications of options, all in the same space footprint as aconventional ISO intermodal shipping container. In at least onecontemplated commercial embodiment, the shipping container footprint isthat of a “hi-cube” unit that is eight feet wide, 10 feet long, and9-foot-6-inches tall; however, other conventional shipping containerfootprint sizes may additionally or alternatively be utilized; however,other conventional shipping container footprint sizes may additionallyor alternatively be utilized. In this regard, however, it is preferredthat the height be selected to match that of the other module types.

The container includes a top left side rail 532, a bottom left side rail530, a top right side rail 533, a bottom right side rail 531, a top rearrail 234, a rear sill 235, a rear left post 236, a rear right post 237,a top front rail 245, a front sill 246, a front left post 247, and afront right post 248. A plurality of walls are supported by the rails,sills, and posts to form a housing; portions or the entirety of eachsuch wall preferably utilize conventional corrugated steel construction,like that of conventional intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the modules130 to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventional shippingcontainers. The modules 130 may thus be hauled by rail, tractor-trailer,ship, and any other conventional mode of shipping container transport.Side attachment fittings 243 may be provided to enable the module 130 tobe securely attached to another module placed in side-by-side abutmenttherewith. End attachment fittings (not shown) may also be provided toenable the module 130 to be securely attached to the end of a gen-setmodule 101. Preferably, the side attachment fittings 243 and endattachment fittings are connected to the conventional corner castings241,242. In at least some embodiments, a corner casting 241,242 of onemodule 130 can be attached to a corresponding corner casting 241,242 onthe adjacent module via a single side attachment fitting 243.

As shown in FIGS. 7B and 7D, the external fuel tank module 130 includesa fuel tank 602 that may be connected to the generator 200 such as by anaccess port 219 in the front wall of the gen-set module 101. The accessport 219 preferably includes an opening through the end wall and a coverthat seals the opening when not in use. In some power generationfacility implementations, the fuel tanks 602 may be used as auxiliaryfuel tanks, supplementing the fuel contained in an internal fuel tank250 of a gen-set module 101. In other power generation facilityimplementations, it may be required (for example due to localregulations) that fuel tanks must be kept separate from generators, inwhich case the external fuel tank 602 of this module 130 is used to keepthe fuel separate from a gen-set module 101. Placing the fuel tank 602in a separate module from that of the generator 200 provides a higherlevel of safety protection, particularly in larger facilities. Forexample, by placing fuel tanks 602 in separate modules 130, and byplacing those modules 130 in stacks that are separate from the stacks ofgen-set modules 101, the risk is considerably reduced of fuel, oil, orother fluids leaking from a higher level in a stack of modules into alower-level gen-set module 101, thereby creating a possible fire hazard.

Also as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7D, the external fuel tank module 130preferably includes internal sound baffles 601 that are used to mufflethe sound of combustion and cooling air as well as exhaust from thegenerator 200. Airflow into and/or out of the module 130 is facilitatedby ventilation openings, preferably cover by louvers such as the louvers605,606 shown in FIG. 7E, in the rear panel of the module 130. In atleast some embodiments, the louvers 605 on the left are input louversand the louvers 606 on the right are output louvers. One or moreventilation openings, preferably covered by louvers, may also beprovided in the front panel. The external fuel tank module 130 alsoattenuates mechanical sounds that are generated inside of a gen-setmodule 101 and pass through the front louvers 214 thereof. The externalfuel tank module 130 is an optional module that is placed at the frontend of a gen-set module 101 such that the rear louvers 605,606 thereofare adjacent to the front louvers 214 of the gen-set module 101.

FIGS. 8A-8C are an isometric view, a rear view, and a topcross-sectional view, respectively, of a first exemplary modular powergeneration facility 1000 constructed using some of the building blockmodules of FIG. 1, all according to one or more preferred embodiments ofthe present invention. In this exemplary facility 1000, five gen-setmodules 101 are placed side-by-side, a transformer/switchgear module 102is placed next to one of the gen-set modules 101, and a workroom module103 is placed next to the transformer/switchgear module 102 on the otherside from the gen-set modules 101. With the modules 101,102,103positioned and leveled, the side attachment fittings 243 are used tosecure the sides of the modules together, thus creating a substantiallymodular enclosure.

As noted previously, because the various modules are adapted from ISOintermodal shipping containers, they may be moved and otherwise handledusing any equipment conventionally used to handle ISO intermodalshipping containers. Suitable handling equipment includes short distanceequipment such as container gantry cranes, straddle carriers, grapplerlifts, reach stackers, side lifters, forklift trucks, and the like, aswell as long distance equipment such as railcars, tractor-trailerequipment, and ships. The widespread availability and use of suchequipment is a major advantage in the handling, long distance transport,and on-site assembly of modules into modular power generationfacilities.

In at least some embodiments, the modules are erected upon a base frameor foundation. In this regard, FIGS. 8D and 8E are isometric views ofthe power generation facility 1000 of FIG. 8A, shown with the modulespositioned on a base frame or foundation 110. In FIG. 8D, the base frameor foundation 110 is a single unified structure that supports all ofmodules, while in FIG. 8E, the base frame or foundation 110 is a modularstructure that includes a separate module platform 111 for eachrespective module. In at least some embodiments, the base frame orfoundation 110 may utilize conventional mechanisms 244 (e.g., twist lockfasteners) positioned to interact with the lower corner castings 242 ofthe various modules. The use of corner castings and twist lockfasteners, which are conventional with intermodal shipping containersbut not with power generation facility modules, is another majoradvantage in the transport and assembly of modules into such modularpower generation facilities.

With the modules in place, the prime movers, generators, transformer,communication components, and other operational components may be madeoperational. Installation and operation of the operational components ofthe facility 1000 is similar in many respects to that of systemsdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,427,005, relevant portions of which areincorporated herein by reference.

As shown in detail in FIG. 8C, personnel may enter the workroom module103, and thus the transformer/switchgear module 102 (via the openinterface 315), via the primary access door 310. Thetransformer/switchgear module 102 has a door 311 allowing access intoand out of the adjacent gen-set module 101 via the doorway 204 of suchmodule 101, and the doors 203 of the gen-set modules 101 allow personnelto enter one side of each module 101 and progress through an openingopposite of the door to enter the door of the next gen-set module 101.FIG. 8C also illustrates the alignment of the cable trays 225 in thevarious gen-set modules 101 to allow cables to be routed to, from, andbetween the gen-set modules 101 and the transformer/switchgear module102.

Notably, the use of a common width among the various modules allows thearrangement of modules to be changed without having to remove, shift, orotherwise change the position of all of the modules, or the base frameor foundation 110 on which the facility is mounted, in order toaccommodate a change in one of the modules. In one example, a gen-setmodule 101 may be removed and replaced by a different gen-set modulewithout moving any of the other modules because the replacement modulehas the same width as the original. In another example, the base frameor foundation 110 may be extended, the workroom module 103 may be movedonto the extension, the transformer/switchgear module 102 may be movedto the location previously occupied by the workroom module 103, and anew gen-set module 101 may installed in the location previously occupiedby the transformer/switchgear module 102. Other examples are describedor suggested elsewhere herein.

Still further, the use of a common length among the various modules,particularly in combination with the use of a common width, allows a newmodule to be mounted on exactly the same base frame or foundation 110.For examples, in the situations described above, the corner castings ofthe new module will fit on the same twist lock fasteners used for theprevious module without any adjustment thereto.

FIGS. 9A-9C are an isometric view, a rear view, and a topcross-sectional view, respectively, of a second exemplary modular powergeneration facility 1001 constructed using some of the building blockmodules of FIG. 1, all according to one or more preferred embodiments ofthe present invention. This exemplary facility 1001 likewise includesfive gen-set modules 101 placed side-by-side, a transformer/switchgearmodule 102 is placed next to one of the gen-set modules 101, and aworkroom module 103 placed on the other side of thetransformer/switchgear module 102. In addition, however, an externalfuel tank module 130 and a sound baffle module 120 abut the front andrear ends of the nearest gen-set module 101. Notably, although thesemodules 120,130 are shown in abutment with only one of the gen-setmodules 101, it will be appreciated that if these modules 120,130 areused, a more typical implementation would include such modules 120,130in use with each of the gen-set modules 101.

Although not illustrated, the facility 1001 may be erected upon a baseframe or foundation similar in many respects to the base frames orfoundations 110 of FIGS. 8D and 8E. Such a base frame or foundation maybe a unified structure or a modular structure. The base frame orfoundation 110 may include support for the sound baffle module 120 andthe external fuel tank module 130 (and any other such modules 120,130that are utilized). The base frame or foundation 110 may utilizeconventional mechanisms 244 (e.g., twist lock fasteners) positioned tointeract with the lower corner castings 242 of the various modules.

In at least some embodiments, the building block modules may be stackedon top of each other to create multi-level power generation facilities.In this regard, FIGS. 10A-10C are an isometric view, a rear view, and atop cross-sectional view, respectively, of a third exemplary modularpower generation facility 1002 constructed using the building blockmodules of FIG. 1, all according to one or more preferred embodiments ofthe present invention. As shown therein, the facilities 1000,1001 ofFIGS. 8A-8C and FIGS. 9A-9C are used as base building blocks in thecreation of a five-level matrix of modules. The base level 1011 includesall of the electric power generation modules of the exemplary facility1001 of FIGS. 9A-9C as well as a staircase module 104 to allow access toa second level 1012 of the facility 1002. The second level 1012, a thirdlevel 1013, a fourth level 1014, and a fifth level 1015 each include allof the electric power generation modules of the exemplary facility 1000of FIGS. 8A-8C as well as a staircase module 104 to allow access to thelevel above and/or the level below. As with the facility 1001 of FIGS.9A-9C, the sound baffle module 120 and external fuel tank module 130 areonly shown in use with the nearest gen-set module 101 on the first level1011, but it will be appreciated that such modules 120,130 may likewisebe used with each gen-set module 101 in the first level 1011, and mayalso be stacked on top of each other for use with the gen-set modules101 in the upper levels 1012,1013,1014,1015.

As shown in detail in FIG. 10C, personnel may enter the workroom module103, and thus the transformer/switchgear module 102 (via the openinterface 315), via the primary access door 310. The primary access door310 is accessible from a landing or platform portion of the staircasemodule 104; one or more openings in the safety rails may be provided atsuitable locations to permit passage from the staircase module 104 intothe workroom module 103 or, as shown in another exemplary facilitybelow, another module as desired. Access to the various gen-set modules101 on each level is accessible through doors and passages accessiblefrom the transformer/switchgear module 102 as described previously withrespect to the first exemplary facility 1000.

In the arrangement of FIGS. 10A-10C, it is anticipated that each levelor row of modules operates to at least some degree as a functional unit,wherein the gen-set modules 101 are ganged together with thetransformer/switchgear module 102 and the switchgear forms part of thecontrol system used to effectuate operation of the modules on thatparticular level in the facility. In such an arrangement, each row orlevel of modules may operate with some degree of independence from otherrows or levels of modules, and although some elements of common controlmay be provided (such as monitoring functions), overall control isprovided on a level-by-level basis. However, in various modular powergeneration facility embodiments, other arrangements may alternatively beutilized, including arrangements, described below, wherein stacks ofmodules, rather than rows or levels, may operate as functional units.

Notably, the use of a common width among the various modules allows thearrangement of modules to be changed without having to remove, shift, orotherwise change the position of all of the modules, and without havingto remove, shift, or otherwise change the position of modules in lowerlevels, in order to accommodate a change in one of the modules. In oneexample, a gen-set module 101 may be removed and replaced by a differentgen-set module without moving any of the other modules because thereplacement module has the same width as the original. In anotherexample, a module can be stacked on directly top of a lower module, suchthat the upper module is directly adjacent a neighboring module in theupper level, without having to reposition the lower level module. Otherexamples are described or suggested elsewhere herein.

Still further, the use of a common height among the various modulesallows entire levels of modules to be assembled, with each module ineach level being at the same elevation. This facilitates the routing ofcables between and through modules and makes it possible for users toaccess modules in each level by walking through other modules, with thefloors of the various modules being generally co-planar. Still further,the use of a common length among the various modules in combination withthe use of a common height makes it easy for modules to be stacked ontop of each other because each module on an upper level is fullysupported by the module below it.

As noted previously, because the various modules are adapted from ISOintermodal shipping containers, they may be moved and otherwise handledusing any equipment conventionally used to handle ISO intermodalshipping containers. Suitable handling equipment includes short distanceequipment such as container gantry cranes, straddle carriers, grapplerlifts, reach stackers, side lifters, forklift trucks, and the like, aswell as long distance equipment such as railcars, tractor-trailerequipment, and ships. The widespread availability and use of suchequipment is a major advantage in the handling, long distance transport,and on-site assembly of modules into modular power generationfacilities, particularly when modules are stacked on top of each otheras shown in FIGS. 10A-10C. Advantageously, when one module is placed ontop of another module, the upper module can be easily attached to thelower module via conventional mechanisms (e.g., twist lock fasteners).At higher levels, it may be particularly useful for the twist lockfasteners to be of the automatic type because of the difficulty inherentin accessing them directly.

Particularly when multiple levels of stacked modules are employed,additional equipment and techniques for stabilizing the module stacksmay be adapted from the intermodal shipping industry and utilized. Forexample, crisscrossed pairs of conventional lashing rods (not shown) maybe installed at the end of each first-level module by attaching one endof each lashing rod to the base frame or foundation (typically via a“padeye”) and attaching the other end to a corner casting on the bottomof the second level module that is stacked on top of the first-levelmodule. Such lashing rods typically employ turnbuckles that may betightened to ensure that the second-level module is held tightly on topof the first-level module in each stack.

Stacked structures such as the facility 1002 of FIGS. 10A-10C may alsobe utilized in conjunction with other stacked structures to provide evengreater flexibility in the creation of modular power generationfacilities. For example, FIG. 11 is a top cross-sectional view of afourth exemplary modular power generation facility 1003 constructedusing the building block modules of FIG. 1, all according to one or morepreferred embodiments of the present invention. In this facility 1003,two of the facilities 1000 shown in FIGS. 8A-8C are positioned in closeproximity to each other. Such an arrangement enables still greater powerdensity in a smaller footprint than previously possible. This may beparticularly useful when the power generation needs exceed the greatestmaximum facility height, where such maximum may be set by physicalrestraints, local requirements (such as construction restrictionsrequiring structures to remain below a tree canopy, neighboringbuildings, or the like), design preference, or the like. In FIG. 11, thetwo sub-facilities 1000 are arranged only ten feet from each other withan alley 1010 extending therebetween.

FIG. 11 also illustrates the use of a second stack of staircase modules104 at the opposite end from the first in each of the two sub-facilities1000. Although most operational access to a facility involves entry tothe workroom module 103 and transformer/switchgear module 102, access tothe various gen-set modules 101 in each level of a facility is sometimesnecessary, and traversing the path through the workroom module 103 andtransformer/switchgear module 102 on each level to get to the mostdistant gen-set modules 101 can be tedious. Thus, a second staircasemodule 104, providing access to the adjacent gen-set module 101 viaaccess door 203, can be added if desired. The total area occupied by theexemplary two-stack facility 1003 of FIG. 11 is thus 80 feet long (tenmodules, each 8 feet wide) by 50 feet wide (two modules, each 20 feetlong, separated by a ten-foot-wide alley 1010).

FIGS. 12A-12F are an isometric view, a top cross-sectional view, a rightside view, a left side view, a rear view, and a front view,respectively, of another one of the gen-set modules 701 of FIG. 1. Aswith the first type of gen-set module 101, this gen-set module 701includes a generator 700 housed in a purpose-built ISO intermodalshipping container with limited modifications of options, all in thesame space footprint as a conventional ISO intermodal shippingcontainer. In at least one contemplated commercial embodiment, theshipping container footprint is that of a “hi-cube” unit that is eightfeet wide, 20 feet long, and 9-foot-6-inches tall; however, otherconventional shipping container footprint sizes may additionally oralternatively be utilized.

The container includes a top left side rail 232, a bottom left side rail230, a top right side rail 233, a bottom right side rail 231, a top rearrail 234, a rear sill 235, a rear left post 236, a rear right post 237,a top front rail 245, a front sill 246, a front left post 247, and afront right post 248. A plurality of walls are supported by the rails,sills, and posts to form a housing; portions or the entirety of eachsuch wall preferably utilize conventional corrugated steel construction,like that of conventional intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the modules701 to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventional shippingcontainers. The modules 701 may thus be hauled by rail, tractor-trailer,ship, and any other conventional mode of shipping container transport.Side attachment fittings 243 are also provided to enable the module 701to be securely attached to another module placed in side-by-sideabutment therewith. Preferably, the side attachment fittings 243 areconnected to the conventional corner castings 241,242. In at least someembodiments, a corner casting 241,242 of one module 701 can be attachedto a corresponding corner casting 241,242 on the adjacent module via asingle side attachment fitting 243. In at least some of theseembodiments, the side attachment fittings 243 are provided on the fourfixtures 241,242 on one side of the module 701, and the side that isselected is the same for every module such that a proper set of sideattachment fittings is always available for side-to-side attachment ofadjacent modules.

One or more large ventilation opening in the rear doors or panel,preferably covered by louvers 211, allows ventilation air to circulatethrough the gen-set module 701, while one or more additional ventilationopening in the front wall, also preferably covered by louvers 714,allows cooling air to circulate to the generator 700 contained inside.The rear ventilation openings preferably occupy substantially all of thearea of the rear doors or panel, while the front ventilation openingspreferably occupy at least a quarter of the area of the front panel.User access to the interior is generally provided via doorways 204 and apassageway 220; a door 203 is shown in an open position in one of thedoorways 204. However, in at least some embodiments, a front panel 715,front louvers 714, and/or rear louvers 211 may be removed, and/or therear doors (if provided) may be opened, to provide additional access tothe contents of the gen-set module 701, allowing access for repair,upgrade or replacement of components.

As perhaps best shown in the top cross-sectional view of FIG. 12B, theinterior of the gen-set module 701 contains a generator 700, analternator 709, one or more batteries 716, a “hotstart” heating/startingsystem 717, a cooling radiator 707, a circuit breaker/switchgear panel708, a communications (comms) box 718, a fuel tank 750, and an exhaustpipe 705. In one contemplated commercial embodiment, the generator 700is diesel-fired and satisfies the EPA Tier 2 Final emissions standards.Equipment suitable for use includes a Tier 2 (600 kW) engine availablefrom Volvo and a corresponding alternator available from Marathon. Asilencer 723 is preferably provided in such embodiments. Also, invarious embodiments, some of which are described herein, a generator maybe provided that is gasoline fired, natural gas fired, propane fired,fuel oil fired, or fired by any other type of fuel. In variousembodiments, the generators can be high-efficiency and rated forcontinuous use, or can be lower efficiency rated for non-continuous use.

The filling of the tank 750 may be accomplished by supply hoses passedthrough a doorway 204 or via some other opening. In an alternateembodiment, filling ports may be mounted on an external surface of thegen-set module 701 such as the surface where the louvers 211 aremounted. In another alternate embodiment, the tanks of a plurality ofgen-set modules 701 can be interconnected through a manifold system, andfluid levels can be centrally monitored using a set of tank-levelsensors and replenished manually by an operator or automatically underthe control of a central monitoring control system.

In at least some embodiments of the present invention, one or moreoverhead cable trays 225 are used to carry power output and controlsignal cables (not shown) within the module 701. Such interconnectcables are connected to the circuit breaker/switchgear panel 708 andcommunications (comms) box 718 in a given gen-set module 701. In atleast some embodiments, the cables are provided as part of a pre-definedpower cable and control wire harnesses that are pre-manufactured,pre-installed, and factory verified prior to shipment. A cable slot 226is arranged in the respective side wall of the container at each end ofthe cable tray 225 to provide entry and exit of the cables to/from themodule 701. As described further elsewhere herein, the cables may bepassed through the cable trays of adjacent modules, particularlyincluding other gen-set modules 701, until the cables can be terminatedat the equipment located in the transformer/switchgear module 102 andworkroom module 103 located on the same level as the correspondinggen-set modules 101. Additionally or alternatively, vertical cablechases (not shown) may be provided to enable interconnect between agen-set module 701 and the module above and/or below it. Also, in analternate embodiments (not shown), interconnect cables that are integralto each gen-set module 701 and arranged such that they are terminated inmodular connections that can be made by plugs mounted to the exteriorwalls of each of the gen-set modules 701.

The doorways 204 and cable slots 226 of each module are preferablysurrounded by a frame that may be coupled to a corresponding frame on anadjacent module to provide environmental protection for the cableconnections and the doorways. In at least some embodiments, one side ofthe module 701 utilizes an inner frame 228 and the other side of themodule 701 utilizes an outer frame 229 such that when the module 701 isplaced in side-to-side abutment with another module, the inner frame 228of one module fits within the outer frame 229 of the other module tosurround and protect the inter-module doorway and cable passages. Inother embodiments (not shown), the frames on opposing sides may beidentical but arranged to couple with each other in a manner providingsimilar protection.

FIGS. 13A-13F are an isometric view, a top cross-sectional view, a rightside view, a left side view, a rear view, and a front view,respectively, of still another one of the gen-set modules 801 of FIG. 1.This gen-set module 801 is a natural gas-powered gen-set module 801. Aswith the first and second types of gen-set module 101,701, this gen-setmodule 801 includes a generator 800 housed in a purpose-built ISOintermodal shipping container with limited modifications of options, allin the same space footprint as a conventional ISO intermodal shippingcontainer. In at least one contemplated commercial embodiment, theshipping container footprint is that of a “hi-cube” unit that is eightfeet wide, 20 feet long, and 9-foot-6-inches tall; however, otherconventional shipping container footprint sizes may additionally oralternatively be utilized.

The container includes a top left side rail 232, a bottom left side rail230, a top right side rail 233, a bottom right side rail 231, a top rearrail 234, a rear sill 235, a rear left post 236, a rear right post 237,a top front rail 245, a front sill 246, a front left post 247, and afront right post 248. A plurality of walls are supported by the rails,sills, and posts to form a housing; portions or the entirety of eachsuch wall preferably utilize conventional corrugated steel construction,like that of conventional intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the modules801 to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventional shippingcontainers. The modules 801 may thus be hauled by rail, tractor-trailer,ship, and any other conventional mode of shipping container transport.Side attachment fittings 243 are also provided to enable the module 801to be securely attached to another module placed in side-by-sideabutment therewith. Preferably, the side attachment fittings 243 areconnected to the conventional corner castings 241,242. In at least someembodiments, a corner casting 241,242 of one module 801 can be attachedto a corresponding corner casting 241,242 on the adjacent module via asingle side attachment fitting 243. In at least some of theseembodiments, the side attachment fittings 243 are provided on the fourfixtures 241,242 on one side of the module 801, and the side that isselected is the same for every module such that a proper set of sideattachment fittings is always available for side-to-side attachment ofadjacent modules.

One or more large ventilation opening in the rear doors or panel,preferably covered by louvers 211, allows ventilation air to circulatethrough the gen-set module 801, while one or more additional ventilationopening in the front wall, also preferably covered by louvers 814,allows cooling air to circulate to the generator 800 contained inside.The rear ventilation openings preferably occupy substantially all of thearea of the rear doors or panel, while the front ventilation openingspreferably occupy at least a quarter of the area of the front panel.User access to the interior is generally provided via doorways 204 and apassageway 220; a door 203 is shown in an open position in one of thedoorways 204. However, in at least some embodiments, a front panel 815,front louvers 814, and/or rear louvers 211 may be removed, and/or therear doors (if provided) may be opened, to provide additional access tothe contents of the gen-set module 801, allowing access for repair,upgrade or replacement of components.

As perhaps best shown in the top cross-sectional view of FIG. 13B, theinterior of the gen-set module 801 contains an engine-generator 800, analternator 809, one or more batteries 816, a circuit breaker/switchgearpanel 808, a communications (comms) box 818, exhaust pipes 805, anatural gas intake pipe 806, and a passageway 220. Equipment suitablefor use includes a dual-unit compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered 400 kWengine manufactured by Power Solutions International (PSI) and acorresponding alternator available from Marathon. Silencers 823 arepreferably provided for each unit in such embodiments. The fuel is fedin through the intake pipe 806 from an external tank (not illustrated).In some embodiments, a dedicated external tank for each module 801 ishoused in an external fuel tank module, while in some embodiments anexternal tank is shared by multiple gen-set modules 801. Such a tankmight, for example, be housed in the base frame or foundation 110. Also,in various embodiments, some of which are described herein, a generatormay be provided that is gasoline fired, natural gas fired, propanefired, fuel oil fired, or fired by any other type of fuel. In variousembodiments, the generators can be high-efficiency and rated forcontinuous use, or can be lower efficiency rated for non-continuous use.

In at least some embodiments of the present invention, one or moreoverhead cable trays 225 are used to carry power output and controlsignal cables (not shown) within the module 801. Such interconnectcables are connected to the circuit breaker/switchgear panel 808 andcommunications (comms) box 818 in a given gen-set module 801. In atleast some embodiments, the cables are provided as part of a pre-definedpower cable and control wire harnesses that are pre-manufactured,pre-installed, and factory verified prior to shipment. A cable slot 226is arranged in the respective side wall of the container at each end ofthe cable tray 225 to provide entry and exit of the cables to/from themodule 801. As described further elsewhere herein, the cables may bepassed through the cable trays of adjacent modules, particularlyincluding other gen-set modules 801, until the cables can be terminatedat the equipment located in the transformer/switchgear module 102 andworkroom module 103 located on the same level as the correspondinggen-set modules 101. Additionally or alternatively, vertical cablechases (not shown) may be provided to enable interconnect between agen-set module 801 and the module above and/or below it. Also, in analternate embodiments (not shown), interconnect cables that are integralto each gen-set module 801 and arranged such that they are terminated inmodular connections that can be made by plugs mounted to the exteriorwalls of each of the gen-set modules 801.

The doorways 204 and cable slots 226 of each module are preferablysurrounded by a frame that may be coupled to a corresponding frame on anadjacent module to provide environmental protection for the cableconnections and the doorways. In at least some embodiments, one side ofthe module 801 utilizes an inner frame 228 and the other side of themodule 801 utilizes an outer frame 229 such that when the module 801 isplaced in side-to-side abutment with another module, the inner frame 228of one module fits within the outer frame 229 of the other module tosurround and protect the inter-module doorway and cable passages. Inother embodiments (not shown), the frames on opposing sides may beidentical but arranged to couple with each other in a manner providingsimilar protection.

FIGS. 14A-14F are an isometric view, a top cross-sectional view, a rightside view, a left side view, a rear view, and a front view,respectively, of still another one of the gen-set modules 901 of FIG. 1.As with the first, second, and third types of gen-set module101,701,801, this gen-set module 901 includes a generator 900 housed ina purpose-built ISO intermodal shipping container with limitedmodifications of options, all in the same space footprint as aconventional ISO intermodal shipping container. In at least onecontemplated commercial embodiment, the shipping container footprint isthat of a “hi-cube” unit that is eight feet wide, 20 feet long, and9-foot-6-inches tall; however, other conventional shipping containerfootprint sizes may additionally or alternatively be utilized.

The container includes a top left side rail 232, a bottom left side rail230, a top right side rail 233, a bottom right side rail 231, a top rearrail 234, a rear sill 235, a rear left post 236, a rear right post 237,a top front rail 245, a front sill 246, a front left post 247, and afront right post 248. A plurality of walls are supported by the rails,sills, and posts to form a housing; portions or the entirety of eachsuch wall preferably utilize conventional corrugated steel construction,like that of conventional intermodal shipping containers. Conventional(ISO where applicable) corner castings, preferably including both upperand lower corner castings 241,242, are provided to enable the modules901 to be carried, and preferably stacked, like conventional shippingcontainers. The modules 901 may thus be hauled by rail, tractor-trailer,ship, and any other conventional mode of shipping container transport.Side attachment fittings 243 are also provided to enable the module 901to be securely attached to another module placed in side-by-sideabutment therewith. Preferably, the side attachment fittings 243 areconnected to the conventional corner castings 241,242. In at least someembodiments, a corner casting 241,242 of one module 901 can be attachedto a corresponding corner casting 241,242 on the adjacent module via asingle side attachment fitting 243. In at least some of theseembodiments, the side attachment fittings 243 are provided on the fourfixtures 241,242 on one side of the module 901, and the side that isselected is the same for every module such that a proper set of sideattachment fittings is always available for side-to-side attachment ofadjacent modules.

One or more large ventilation opening in the rear doors or panel,preferably covered by louvers 211, allows ventilation air to circulatethrough the gen-set module 901, while one or more additional ventilationopening in the front wall, also preferably covered by louvers 914,allows cooling air to circulate to the generator 900 contained inside.The rear ventilation openings preferably occupy substantially all of thearea of the rear doors or panel, while the front ventilation openingspreferably occupy at least a quarter of the area of the front panel.User access to the interior is generally provided via doorways 904 and apassageway 920; doors (not shown) may be provided for the doorways 904.However, in at least some embodiments, a front panel, front louvers 914,and/or rear louvers 211 may be removed, and/or the rear doors (ifprovided) may be opened, to provide additional access to the contents ofthe gen-set module 901, allowing access for repair, upgrade orreplacement of components.

As perhaps best shown in the top cross-sectional view of FIG. 14B, theinterior of the gen-set module 901 contains a generator 900, analternator 909, one or more batteries 916, a “hotstart” heating/startingsystem 917, a cooling radiator 907, a circuit breaker/switchgear panel908, a communications (comms) box (not shown), a fuel tank 950, and anexhaust pipe 905. In at least some contemplated commercial embodiments,the generator 900 is diesel-fired and satisfies the EPA Tier 4 Finalemissions standards. Equipment suitable for use includes a Tier 4 (625kW) engine available from Volvo and a corresponding alternator availablefrom Marathon; such engine and alternator may be similar to those of thegen-set module 201 of FIG. 2B. In at least some embodiments, a selectivecatalyst reduction (SCR) system 921 and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF)(urea) tank 922 are provided in order to help meet Tier 4 emission levelrequirements. The SCR system 921 is disposed inside the container,adjacent the generator 900, but the DEF tank 922 is located outside theISO container in order to facilitate ease of connection to main supplyinfrastructure and to provide greater internal module space foroperation and maintenance access. In at least some such embodiments,standard harnesses and plumbing as provided by the engine manufacturerare utilized without modification.

Unlike the other gen-set modules 101,701,801 shown in FIG. 1, thegen-set modules 901 of FIGS. 14A-14F includes an external superstructure960 extending horizontally from the front of the module 901. Thesuperstructure 960 may include various support elements and combinationsthereof, including horizontal ladder structures 961, vertical ladderstructures 962, individual cantilever beams 963 and plates 964, and thelike. The superstructure 960 is preferably arranged so as not tointerfere with the front louvers 914, the exhaust pipe 905, and variousother access openings that may be provided in/through the front of thecontainer. The various elements of the superstructure may be used tosupport various components, particularly (although not necessarilyexclusively) including components connected or otherwise interfaced withcomponents disposed within the container. Notably, use of thesuperstructure 960 enables some components that would otherwise behoused within the container to be located outside the container instead,thus freeing up internal module space for operation and maintenanceaccess.

The filling of the tank 950 may be accomplished via a filling port inthe front end of the container, via a supply hose installed ortemporarily passed through an access opening in the front end of thecontainer, through a doorway 904, or via some other opening. In analternate embodiment, the tanks of a plurality of gen-set modules 901can be interconnected through a manifold system, and fluid levels can becentrally monitored using a set of tank-level sensors and replenishedmanually by an operator or automatically under the control of a centralmonitoring control system.

In at least some embodiments of the present invention, the horizontalladder structures 961, the vertical ladder structures 962, or both, areadapted to serve as cable trays and may be used to carry power outputand control signal cables (not shown). Such cables may be routedlaterally (such as to or from an adjacent module located to the side ofthe module 901), vertically (such as to or from an adjacent modulelocated above or below the module 901), or both. Furthermore, suchcables may or may not interconnect with the module 901 itself; they mayin some cases simply pass by. Cables that interconnect with the module901 itself are connected to the circuit breaker/switchgear panel 908,communications (comms) box, and the like. In at least some embodiments,the cables are provided as part of a pre-defined power cable and controlwire harnesses that are pre-manufactured, pre-installed, and factoryverified prior to shipment. A cable slot 926 is preferably arranged inthe front end wall of the container, adjacent one or both ladderstructures 961,962 (preferably just above the horizontal ladderstructure 962) to provide entry and exit of the cables to/from themodule 901. As described further elsewhere herein, the cables may, forexample, be passed along the horizontal ladder structures 962 ofadjacent modules until the cables can be terminated at the equipmentlocated in the transformer/switchgear module 102 and workroom module 103located on the same level as the corresponding gen-set modules 901.Alternatively, as described further elsewhere herein, the cables may,for example, be passed along the vertical ladder structures 961 ofadjacent modules until the cables can be terminated at the equipmentlocated in the switchgear module 112 located in the same stack (modulecolumn) as the corresponding gen-set modules 901. Additionally oralternatively, vertical cable chases (not shown) may be provided in thetop wall, bottom wall, or both to enable interconnect between a gen-setmodule 901 and the module above and/or below it. Also, in an alternateembodiments (not shown), interconnect cables that are integral to eachgen-set module 901 and arranged such that they are terminated in modularconnections that can be made by plugs mounted to the exterior walls ofeach of the gen-set modules 901.

When a modular power generation facility makes use of gen-set modulesthat have a superstructure that includes elements like horizontal ladderstructures 961, vertical ladder structures 962, and/or other supportstructures, and particularly support structures that are used to supportcables, hoses, or other components that extend between modules, it maybe preferable to utilize such a superstructure on other types of modulesin the facility as well. In this regard, FIGS. 15A-15F are an isometricview, a top cross-sectional view, a right side view, a left side view, arear view, and a front view of another switchgear/workroom module 122 ofFIG. 1. This switchgear/workroom module 122 has internal componentssimilar to those of the other switchgear/workroom module 112 of FIGS.4A-4F, but utilizes a container and superstructure 960 that is similarin many ways to that of the gen-set module 901 of FIGS. 14A-14F.

Exemplary modular power generation facilities described thus far haveutilized multiple gen-set modules positioned side-by-side and gangedtogether with an adjacent transformer/switchgear module 102 (orswitchgear/workroom module 112) such that all of the modules arearranged in a single level. However, in other embodiments, multiplegen-set modules may be stacked on top of each other and ganged togetherwith a switchgear module such that all of the modules are arranged in asingle column. In this regard, FIG. 16 is a front view of a fifthexemplary modular power generation facility 1004 constructed using thebuilding block modules of FIG. 1, all according to one or more preferredembodiments of the present invention. In this exemplary facility 1004,five gen-set modules 901 are stacked on top of a switchgear/workroommodule 112 in a single column 1021. With the modules 901,112 positionedand leveled, twist lock fasteners or other mechanisms 244 are used tosecure each module to the one below it, thus creating a substantiallymodular enclosure. In addition, to provide user access to the uppermodules, six staircase modules 104 are stacked on top of each otherimmediately adjacent the stack of gen-set modules 901. Twist lockfasteners or other mechanisms 244 are likewise used to secure eachstaircase module 104 to the one below it, and side attachment fittings243 are used to secure the sides of the staircase modules 104 to thestack of gen-set modules 901.

In the arrangement of FIG. 16, it is anticipated that each column ofmodules operates to at least some degree as a functional unit, whereinthe gen-set modules 901 are ganged together with the switchgear/workroommodule 112 and the switchgear forms part of the control system used toeffectuate operation of the modules on that particular level in thefacility. In such an arrangement, each column of modules may operatewith some degree of independence from other columns of modules, andalthough some elements of common control may be provided (such asmonitoring functions), overall control is provided on a column-by-columnbasis. However, in various modular power generation facilityembodiments, other arrangements may alternatively be utilized, includingarrangements, described elsewhere herein, wherein rows or levels ofmodules, rather than columns, may operate as functional units.

In at least some embodiments, stacks of gen-set modules may be lined upnext to each other to create multi-stack power generation facilities. Inthis regard, FIGS. 17A and 17B are an isometric view and a front view,respectively, of a sixth exemplary modular power generation facility1005 constructed using the building block modules of FIG. 1, and FIGS.18A and 18B are an isometric view and a front view, respectively, of aseventh exemplary modular power generation facility 1006 constructedusing the building block modules of FIG. 1, all according to one or morepreferred embodiments of the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 17Aand 17B, the gen-set/switchgear module column 1021 of FIG. 16 is used asa base building block in the creation of a ten-column matrix of modules.The column on the left is formed entirely from staircase modules 104,while each of the other columns 1021 includes the gen-set modules 901and switchgear/workroom module 112 of FIG. 16. In FIGS. 18A and 18B, asimilar matrix of modules is provided but with the switchgear/workroommodule 122 of FIGS. 15A-15F substituted for the switchgear/workroommodule 112 of FIGS. 4A-4F.

In the exemplary facilities of FIGS. 17A, 17B, 18A, and 18B, access tothe modules on each level is provided via the staircase modules 104.Personnel may enter the switchgear/workroom module 112,122 of thedesired level via the primary access door 310, which is accessible froma landing or platform portion of the staircase module 104; one or moreopenings in the safety rails may be provided at suitable locations topermit passage from the staircase module 104 into theswitchgear/workroom module 112,122 (or, in various other facilities,some other module). Access to the various gen-set modules 901 on eachlevel is accessible through doors and passages accessible from theswitchgear/workroom module 112,122 as described previously with respectto the first exemplary facility 1000.

A given installation of a modular power generation facility havinghorizontal functional units, such as the single level systems 1000,1001in FIGS. 9A and 10A or the multi-level systems 1002,1003 in FIGS. 10Aand 11, may have a variety of different gen-set modules 101,701,801,901on any given level and in any given position on such level, as well as avariety of the corresponding switchgear/workroom modules 112,122 whenthey are necessary. Similarly, a given installation of a modular powergeneration facility having vertical functional units, such as the singlegen-set column system 1004 of FIG. 16 or the multi-column systems1005,1006 in FIGS. 17A and 18A, may have a variety of different gen-setmodules 101,701,801,901 in any given gen-set column and in any givenposition in such column as well as a variety of the correspondingswitchgear/workroom modules 112,122 when they are necessary. In variousembodiments, it is possible to use combinations of gen-set modules101,701,801,901 that include a majority of high efficiency, low emission(pollution as well as noise) gas-fired gen-sets with a lesser number oflower efficiency gen-set modules for peak-shaving or back-up generationneeds. With such a combination, the highest efficiency units could runat a very high duty cycle while still having lower duty cycle unitsavailable for peak demand or backup purposes. Since each gen-set module101,701,801,901 can be installed individually, it is also possible touse a combination of gen-set modules 101,701,801,901 with a range ofgeneration capacities to suit the generation need for a giveninstallation.

With the capability to use a variety of gen-set modules 101,701,801,901,a given modular power generation facility can be customized based onanticipated demand, and capacity can be added by installing additionalgen-set modules 101,701,801,901 to any given row or column,respectively, and/or by adding additional levels or columns. Forexample, a new row may comprise a transformer/switchgear module 102, aworkroom module 103, one or more staircase modules 104 and the desirednumber of gen-set modules 101,701,801,901 of each type. The number oflevels is primarily constrained by the structural integrity of the ISOintermodal shipping containers that form the building blocks of themodular power generation facility, including the gen-set modules101,701,801,901, the transformer/switchgear modules 102, the workroommodules 103, the switchgear/workroom modules 112,122, the staircasemodules 104, the sound baffle modules 120, and the external fuel tankmodules 130. Other constraints may include the overall power density ofthe fully populated system of the present invention, the state of theart in transformer and switchgear technology, as well as the cooling airrequirements and intake air/exhaust requirements.

Various advantages may be achieved according to the teachings set forthherein. For example, a higher power density in a given space can beachieved compared to traditional power generation equipment;standardized designs with some options permit an accelerated build andconstruction schedule (such as 3-4 months from time of order to installcompared to 9-12 months with traditional equipment models); simplifiedsupport structures can be utilized; engineering review and productionqueue time are reduced; future expansion can be easily accommodated;once erected, the amount of power produced by a power generationfacility can be later multiplied many times (via expansion, replacement,or both) without changing the amount of space required; power generationequipment purchases may be delayed by customers until closer to time ofneed; reliance on third party vendors for construction, support, andrelated equipment is reduced because the modules are pre-tested andeasily assembled; field installation and commissioning times arereduced; fuel consumption is reduced at least because the equipment canbe operated more efficiently near the optimum performance range of eachengine; oil capacity (and thus oil changes) is reduced, thereby reducingoil costs and related labor costs; improved fuel efficiency and reducedoil usage provide improved environmental benefits; and maximumproduction is achieved for a footprint in which only one end of theenclosure (here, typically the rear of the shipping container housing)is available for air intake. Furthermore, the general approach describedherein still allows flexibility of delivery voltage, 480, 600, 4160 to15 kV class, dependent on the alternator selection and the addition of astep-up transformer for those voltages above 600V AC.

Based on the foregoing information, it will be readily understood bythose persons skilled in the art that the present invention issusceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments andadaptations of the present invention other than those specificallydescribed herein, as well as many variations, modifications, andequivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggestedby the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, withoutdeparting from the substance or scope of the present invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein indetail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to beunderstood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary ofthe present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing afull and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosureis not intended to be construed to limit the present invention orotherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations,modifications or equivalent arrangements; the present invention beinglimited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.

What is claimed is:
 1. A modular power generation facility, comprising:(a) a plurality of primary modules, wherein each primary module includeseight primary corners and an interior space at least partially enclosedby a top wall, a side wall, and an end wall, wherein the primary modulesare positioned in a vertical stack of modules and are attached togetherto form a substantially modular enclosure for the generation ofelectricity, and wherein the primary modules include: (i) one or moregen-set modules, each having an engine-generator and a dedicated fueltank disposed in the interior thereof, wherein the fuel tank providesfuel to the engine-generator, and (ii) a switchgear module havingswitchgear disposed in the interior thereof, wherein the switchgear isganged to at least one of the one or more gen-set modules; and (b) acontrol system in communication with each of the gen-set modules tocoordinate the engine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as aunit and to control the loading of each of the generators in response toa power load demand, wherein the control system is disposed in one ormore of the primary modules with at least part of the control systembeing disposed in the switchgear module.
 2. The modular power generationfacility of claim 1, wherein all of the primary modules have a commonwidth.
 3. The modular power generation facility of claim 2, wherein theswitchgear module is a transformer/switchgear module, wherein thetransformer/switchgear module has a transformer disposed in the interiorthereof, and wherein the transformer is connected to the switchgear. 4.The modular power generation facility of claim 2, wherein a lowermostprimary module, of the vertical stack of primary modules, is mounted on,and attached to, a base frame or foundation.
 5. The modular powergeneration facility of claim 4, wherein the primary corners of thelowermost primary module include four bottom corners, wherein each ofthe bottom corners of the lowermost primary module utilizes astandardized connection structure, and wherein the base frame orfoundation includes corresponding structures that couple to, and hold inplace, the bottom corners to hold the lowermost primary module in placeon the base frame or foundation.
 6. The modular power generationfacility of claim 2, further comprising a staircase module having eightprimary corners, wherein the staircase module is disposed alongside, andattached via the respective primary corners to, at least one primarymodule in the vertical stack of primary modules.
 7. The modular powergeneration facility of claim 6, wherein all of the primary modules havea common height, and wherein each staircase module has a height, asmeasured from a top of a top primary corner to a bottom of a bottomprimary corner directly beneath, equal to the common height of theprimary modules.
 8. The modular power generation facility of claim 6,wherein the staircase module is one of a plurality of staircase modulespositioned in a vertical stack of staircase modules, wherein eachstaircase module is attached to a primary module beside it via sideattachment fittings that are each connected to one corner on thestaircase module and to a corresponding corner on the primary modulebeside the staircase module.
 9. The modular power generation facility ofclaim 2, wherein all of the primary modules have a common length. 10.The modular power generation facility of claim 2, wherein the verticalstack of primary modules is a first vertical stack of primary modules,wherein a second vertical stack of primary modules is disposedimmediately adjacent the first vertical stack of primary modules,wherein each primary module in each vertical stack includes at least onewalk-through opening accessing the interior thereof, and wherein the atleast one walk-through opening of each primary module in the firstvertical stack is aligned with the at least one walk-through opening ofthe primary module immediately adjacent thereto in the second verticalstack, thereby providing access from the interior of each primary moduleto the interior of the immediately adjacent primary module.
 11. Themodular power generation facility of claim 2, wherein the switchgearmodule is the lowermost primary module in the vertical stack of primarymodules.
 12. The modular power generation facility of claim 2, whereineach of one or more of the plurality of primary modules includes arespective superstructure extending outwardly from the end wall thatsupports one or more operational component.
 13. The modular powergeneration facility of claim 12, wherein at least one of the one or moregen-set modules includes the superstructure.
 14. The modular powergeneration facility of claim 13, wherein a respective fluid tank isdisposed on each of at least one superstructure, external to theinterior space of the primary module.
 15. The modular power generationfacility of claim 14, wherein each respective fluid tank is a dieselexhaust fluid (DEF) tank.
 16. The modular power generation facility ofclaim 12, wherein the switchgear module includes the superstructure. 17.The modular power generation facility of claim 12, wherein cables routedto/from an adjacent primary module are supported on each superstructure.18. The modular power generation facility of claim 17, wherein eachsuperstructure includes a vertical ladder structure, wherein therespective vertical ladder structures of vertically adjacent primarymodules are aligned with each other, and wherein cables are routedto/from the adjacent primary modules via the aligned vertical ladderstructures.
 19. A modular power generation facility, comprising: (a) aplurality of primary modules, wherein all of the primary modules have acommon height, wherein each primary module includes eight primarycorners and an interior space at least partially enclosed by a top wall,a side wall, and an end wall, wherein the primary modules are positionedin a vertical stack of modules and are attached together to form asubstantially modular enclosure for the generation of electricity, andwherein the primary modules include: (i) one or more gen-set modules,each having an engine-generator disposed in the interior thereof, and(ii) a switchgear module having switchgear disposed in the interiorthereof, wherein the switchgear is ganged to at least one of the one ormore gen-set modules; and (b) a control system in communication witheach of the gen-set modules to coordinate the engine-generators of theone or more gen-set modules as a unit and to control the loading of eachof the generators in response to a power load demand, wherein thecontrol system is disposed in one or more of the primary modules with atleast part of the control system being disposed in the switchgearmodule; (c) wherein the various primary modules are interchangeable, dueto their common height, such that at a subsequent time a primary modulemay be removed from the stack of modules and replaced by another primarymodule of the same or different type.
 20. A modular power generationfacility, comprising: (a) a plurality of primary modules, wherein eachprimary module includes eight primary corners and an interior space atleast partially enclosed by a top wall, a side wall, and an end wall,wherein each primary module is adapted from an intermodal shippingcontainer having four posts, a pair of top side rails, a pair of bottomside rails, a front sill, a rear sill, a top front rail, and a top rearrail, all of which are connected together at the eight primary cornersby shipping container corner castings, wherein the primary modules arepositioned in a vertical stack of modules and are attached together toform a substantially modular enclosure for the generation ofelectricity, and wherein the primary modules include: (i) one or moregen-set modules, each having an engine-generator disposed in theinterior thereof, and (ii) a switchgear module having switchgeardisposed in the interior thereof, wherein the switchgear is ganged to atleast one of the one or more gen-set modules; and (b) a control systemin communication with each of the gen-set modules to coordinate theengine-generators of the one or more gen-set modules as a unit and tocontrol the loading of each of the generators in response to a powerload demand, wherein the control system is disposed in one or more ofthe primary modules with at least part of the control system beingdisposed in the switchgear module.